Overview

• Christian Horner was relieved of his operational duties effective July 9, ending his 20-year tenure at the helm of Red Bull Racing.
• Laurent Mekies, formerly director of Racing Bulls, takes over immediately with Alan Permane succeeding him at Racing Bulls.
• Red Bull currently holds only two victories in twelve Grands Prix and sits fourth in the constructors’ championship behind McLaren.
• The leadership change follows months of internal upheaval including a 2024 harassment inquiry that cleared Horner and the departure of chief engineer Adrian Newey.
• Mekies faces pressure to reverse the team’s decline and secure Max Verstappen’s future as Mercedes steps up its interest.