In a shock move, Red Bull has fired Christian Horner with immediate effect after two decades as team principal of their Formula 1 team.
Horner, who took the role in 2005 at just 31 years old, helped turn Red Bull into one of the sport’s biggest powerhouses. Under his leadership, they won six Constructors' Championships and eight Drivers' titles — four with Sebastian Vettel (2010–2013) and four more with Max Verstappen (2021–2024). Red Bull also claimed Constructors’ crowns in 2022 and 2023.
Laurent Mekies, previously with the Racing Bulls team, has now been promoted to CEO of Red Bull Racing.
Red Bull's managing director, Oliver Mintzlaff, 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 1."
"Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history."
No word yet on what Horner will do next — but his legacy in F1 is already cemented.