Christian Horner Emotional as He Announces Departure from Red Bull
Christian Horner was overcome with emotion as he informed Red Bull staff that his 20-year tenure as team principal had come to an end.
The 51-year-old was removed from his position by Red Bull GmbH on Tuesday. On Wednesday morning, he arrived at the team’s Milton Keynes facility to personally deliver the unexpected news to approximately 1,500 employees.
Reports indicate Horner became tearful as he addressed hundreds of staff in person and others via video call, confirming his immediate departure. “Yesterday, I was told by Red Bull that I will no longer be involved in the team’s operations,” he told the gathered employees.
In footage obtained by *CuriosityNews*, Horner said: “This decision came as a shock to me. After reflecting overnight, I wanted to speak to all of you directly to share this news and express my deepest gratitude to every member of this team for their dedication over the past 20-and-a-half years.”
“When I joined two decades ago, with far fewer grey hairs, I had no idea what to expect—but I was welcomed instantly. Together, we built this team into a Formula One leader,” he added. His voice faltered mid-speech, prompting an impromptu pause before applause broke out.
In a later statement on Instagram, Horner wrote: “After an extraordinary 20-year journey, it’s with great sadness that I say goodbye to the team I have loved so much. It has been an honour to be part of this incredible chapter in motorsport.”
He continued: “Every one of you—the incredible people behind the scenes—has been the foundation of our achievements. Through victories and setbacks, we stood united, and I will never forget that.”
Horner added: “Leading this team has been a privilege, and I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. Though I leave now, I do so with deep pride in our progress and excitement for what lies ahead in 2026.”
Shortly after his emotional speech, Red Bull GmbH officially confirmed Horner’s departure, ending his tenure that began with the team’s founding in 2005. Laurent Mekies, who currently leads Racing Bulls, was named as his replacement to oversee Red Bull Racing.
Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of the Red Bull Group, released a statement thanking Horner for his “exceptional contributions over the past two decades.” Horner was seen leaving Red Bull’s headquarters just before midday.
His abrupt exit follows months of controversy after he was accused of inappropriate conduct by an employee, though he has consistently denied the allegations.
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