Christian Horner paid tribute to Red Bull’s team members, suppliers and rivals in his first official statement since his departure was announced.
The 51-year-old was the longest-serving team principal in Formula 1. He had run Red Bull’s team since it joined F1 20 years ago, in which time it has won six constructors’ championships and taken Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen to four drivers’ titles each.
“After an incredible journey of 20 years together, it is with a heavy heart that today I say goodbye to the team I have absolutely loved,” said Horner in a post on social media. “Every one of you, the amazing people at the factory, have been the heart and soul of everything that we have achieved.
“Win and lose, every step of the way, we have stood by each other as one and I will never forget that. It’s been a privilege being part of and leading this epic team and I am so proud of our collective accomplishments and you all.
“Thanks to the amazing partners and fans who enabled us to go racing. Your support has helped grow the team from its humble beginnings to an F1 powerhouse that laid claim to six constructors’ championships and eight drivers’ championships.”
Horner also thanked the team’s competitors: “Equally, thank you to our rivals, with whom there would be no racing at all.
“You’ve pushed us, challenged us, and enabled us to achieve accolades we never dreamed possible. The competition has made every victory sweeter and every setback an opportunity to develop and grow. Formula 1 is a sport built on relentless ambition, passion, and respect. The rivalries have been fierce, but the mutual drive to innovate and raise the bar is what has made this journey so special.”
Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and
He leaves the team having turned the struggling Jaguar operation Red Bull acquired from Ford into a multiple championship-winning squad which is due to become a power unit manufacturer next year.
“It’s been an honour to be part of this incredible era of motorsport,” said Horner. “I leave with immense pride in what we’ve achieved and also with what’s in the pipeline for 2026 — and huge respect for everyone who’s made F1 the pinnacle it is today.”
Horner’s place has been taken by Laurent Mekies, who was previously team principal of Red Bull’s other F1 team, Racing Bulls. In a statement issued by Red Bull, CEO for corporate projects and investments Oliver Minztlaff said: “We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years.
“With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula One.
“Thank you for everything Christian, you will forever remain an important part of our Team history. And of course, welcome Laurent, we wish you all the best in this new venture.”
Miss nothing from RaceFans
Get a daily email with all our latest stories – and nothing else. No marketing, no ads. Sign up here:
Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and
Formula 1
- Does Horner’s exit give Verstappen a reason to stay at Red Bull – or prove he’ll go?
- Red Bull fires Horner after 20 years as team principal – Mekies takes his place
- Ferrari had no GPS data from Hamilton’s car throughout British Grand Prix
- “The risk for us is a Safety Car”: Why Norris’s win was in danger for six laps
- Hulkenberg overruled race engineer twice in first nine laps on way to podium