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Red Bull Dismisses Horner, Appoints Mekies as Team Principal

Red Bull installed Mekies as team principal to arrest a midseason slump that eroded unity at the top, with Horner negotiating his exit package.

Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Fernando Alonso of Spain and Aston Martin F1 Team in parc ferme during Sprint qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on May 02, 2025 in Miami, Florida.
Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner talks with Jeremy Clarkson on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain at Bahrain International Circuit on March 02, 2024 in Bahrain, Bahrain.
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Overview

  • Christian Horner was removed as Red Bull Racing team principal and CEO on July 9 after more than 20 years leading the squad to six constructors’ titles and eight drivers’ championships.
  • Laurent Mekies, formerly boss of sister outfit Racing Bulls and a veteran of Ferrari and the FIA, has been elevated to team principal and CEO to guide Red Bull through the remainder of the season.
  • On-track struggles, including a slide to fourth in the constructors’ championship, intensified internal tensions and prompted the abrupt management overhaul.
  • Owners and advisors are finalizing Horner’s severance terms under a contract reportedly worth up to $125 million, with details still under negotiation.
  • Max Verstappen’s long-term future hangs in the balance after reports of an exit clause if the team finishes outside the top three by the end of July and intensifying rumours of interest from Mercedes.