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Christian Horner has been sacked as Red Bull Racing's Team Principal with immediate effect after 20 years in the role. Red Bull confirmed the decision on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, and announced Laurent Mekies as the new CEO of Red Bull Racing.
Horner, 51, had been with Red Bull since 2005, serving as the team's only principal since its entry into Formula 1. Red Bull GmbH stated: "Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today and has appointed Laurent Mekies as CEO of Red Bull Racing."
His removal comes 17 months after he was accused of "inappropriate behaviour" by a female colleague. Horner denied the allegations and was twice cleared by Red Bull GmbH following internal investigations. In a previous statement, Red Bull 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."
Horner's last race in charge was the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where Max Verstappen started from pole position and finished fifth. Red Bull currently holds fourth place in the Constructors' standings, behind McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes. Verstappen has won two of the twelve races this season.
In the past 18 months, Red Bull has also seen the departure of key team members, including designer Adrian Newey to Aston Martin and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley to Sauber. Reports have suggested internal dissatisfaction and growing uncertainty surrounding Verstappen's future.
Mekies, who had been leading the sister team Racing Bulls, said: "The last year and a half has been an absolute privilege to lead the team with Peter. It has been an amazing adventure to contribute to the birth of Racing Bulls together with all our talented people. Alan is the perfect man to take over now and continue our path."
Alan Permane, now appointed as Team Principal at Racing Bulls, said: "I feel very honoured to take on the role... This is a new challenge for me, but I know that I can count on the support of everyone within them."
