Christian Horner has been removed from his roles as Chief Executive Officer and team principal of Red Bull Racing, ending a 20-year tenure. The unexpected move has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, with many struggling to come to terms with the abrupt change. Veteran commentator Martin Brundle noted that while the announcement surprised many, insiders had sensed tensions rising for some time.
New Leadership Takes Charge Amid Red Bull’s Internal Struggles
Laurent Mekies has been appointed to lead Red Bull as both CEO and team principal, signaling a significant shift in the team’s management. Alan Permane has been appointed to head the new Racing Bulls program, marking a fresh strategic direction within the Milton Keynes operation. However, Horner’s departure raises concerns about Red Bull’s future, especially as competitiveness in Formula 1 intensifies.
Turbulent Times for Red Bull Following Loss of Dietrich Mateschitz and Team Upheavals
Red Bull’s internal challenges deepened after co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz passed away and numerous senior staff members departed. This period of instability, compounded by several off-track controversies, created a tense environment within the team’s garage. The mounting pressure culminated in the leadership shake-up, which has unsettled many inside the team who had hoped for continuity.
Concerns Grow Over Performance and Max Verstappen’s Future
During Horner’s leadership, Red Bull secured numerous drivers’ and constructors’ championships, including those featuring star driver Max Verstappen. However, the team’s performance in the 2025 season has declined notably, slipping down the standings and fueling doubt over their technical decisions and long-term prospects. The current uncertainty around Verstappen’s future with the team has become a significant point of speculation among observers.
Formula 1 Community Watches as Red Bull Navigates a New Era
As the 2025 racing calendar continues, all eyes are on the newly formed executive team to see how they manage the fallout and restore stability. Experts suggest that this sudden change could redefine Red Bull’s identity and influence within Formula 1, potentially shaping the team’s trajectory in the years ahead.
“Although the announcement feels sad, it fits a trend of gradual rising tensions that observers had quietly recorded over recent months.” —Martin Brundle, Sky Sports Analyst
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s baby daughter?
A. Max Verstappen has become a father! The 27-year-old Formula One racer and his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, had their first child, a daughter named Lily. They shared the joyful news together on Instagram.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Penelope is a wonderful girl. In 2025, she became a big sister when her parents, Piquet and Verstappen, welcomed a girl named Lily. Here’s a look at Penelope’s interests and her close relationship with Max Verstappen.
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s closest friend?
A. They are just good friends, nothing more. Carlos remains his closest companion and partner in crime. On the track, they are not friends; that’s imagination, not fact!
