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Christian Horner Departs Red Bull After 20 Years as Settlement Opens Path to 2026 F1 Return

The negotiated exit follows months of internal strain after he was twice cleared of misconduct.

Overview

  • Red Bull confirmed Horner’s formal departure on Monday, ending his employment after he was removed from operational duties on July 9 and succeeded by Laurent Mekies.
  • Financial terms were not disclosed, but multiple outlets report a multi‑million settlement variously put around £80 million, with other reports citing figures from about £52 million to as much as $100 million.
  • Reporting indicates the agreement shortens gardening‑leave restrictions, with sources saying he could take another F1 role in the first half of 2026.
  • Horner’s contract had been due to run until 2030, and several reports say the payout is reduced from the full value in exchange for an earlier return window.
  • During his tenure since 2005, Horner oversaw eight drivers’ and six constructors’ titles, with his exit following a governance power struggle within Red Bull’s ownership structure.