Christian Horner departs Red Bull after reaching a settlement
Former Red Bull Formula 1 team boss and CEO Christian Horner has officially left the organisation after a settlement was agreed, bringing a 20-year chapter to a close. Horner was relieved of his duties by Red Bull GmbH on July 9, shortly after the British Grand Prix, amid a widening internal power struggle. Although removed from operational responsibilities immediately, he remained an employee until the severance terms were finalised.
Red Bull’s official line
In its statement announcing the formal separation, Red Bull’s Oliver Mintzlaff thanked Horner for his “exceptional work over the last 20 years,” crediting his “tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking” for helping establish Red Bull Racing as one of Formula 1’s most successful and attractive teams.
Horner’s parting message
Horner issued a final statement reflecting on the journey since 2005 and backing the team’s new leadership. “Leading Red Bull Racing has been an honour and privilege,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved as a team… However for me my biggest satisfaction has been assembling and leading the most amazing group of talented and driven individuals.” He also wished “Laurent, Max, Yuki and all of the Red Bull Technology Group the very best for the future” and noted he looks forward to seeing the first Red Bull/Ford engine in the RB22 next year.
Severance reports and timeline
Multiple outlets have reported on the financial terms of Horner’s exit. Figures vary from nearly €60 million to around £80 million, with Dutch publication De Telegraaf suggesting a package of approximately €60m. Reports also indicate a gardening leave period of nine months from July 9, which would make Horner theoretically free to join another team from April 9, 2026. Other reports suggest he could be free from as early as next season, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Record of achievement
- Drivers’ championships: 8 (Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen)
- Constructors’ championships: 6
- Grand Prix wins: 124
- Podiums: 287
- Pole positions: 107
What’s next for Red Bull and Horner
Red Bull enters its next era with new leadership, with Laurent Mekies positioned at the helm ahead of the team’s 2026 transition. Horner’s immediate future remains the subject of speculation until the terms of his gardening leave elapse. Regardless, his exit closes one of the most successful managerial tenures in modern Formula 1.
