Christian Horner sacked by Red Bull after 20 years as principal at F1 team
GuardianJUL 9
Red Bull Sacks Christian Horner After 20 Years as Team Principal
Above: Christian Horner at the Silverstone Circuit on July 5, 2025. Image copyright: Bradley Collyer/PA Images/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Despite his firing, Horner will be remembered as one of the greatest team principals and CEOs in F1 history. Under his guidance, Red Bull Racing won eight Drivers' Championships and six Constructors' Championships. His replacement, Laurent Mekies, will build upon Horner's legacy to return Red Bull to replicate its past success.
Narrative B
Horner's removal was long overdue, given the toxic atmosphere he created within the team. The allegations of inappropriate behavior, power struggles with key figures such as Jos Verstappen and Helmut Marko, and declining on-track performance made his position untenable. Red Bull needed fresh leadership to retain Max Verstappen and return to form.