Red Bull shocked the Formula 1 world by sacking team principal Christian Horner today after his 20-year tenure. Horner’s leadership helped Red Bull become one of the most successful teams in F1 history, but it was not devoid of controversies. He joined the team in 2005 from the former Jaguar squad and oversaw two dominant periods with Vettel and Verstappen.
Under Horner’s guidance, Red Bull achieved 124 race wins, 287 podiums, and over 8,000 world championship points, surpassing even Williams. However, recent performance declines and ongoing controversies led to his dismissal. Horner faced allegations of inappropriate behavior in February 2024, which were later cleared, but resurfaced in leaked documents in March.
The leaked documents regarding Horner’s behavior created further turmoil within the team and throughout the F1 community. Despite Horner’s denial of the claims and Red Bull’s investigation clearing him, the damage had been done. The saga culminated in his removal and the appointment of Laurent Mekies as his successor. Additionally, legendary designer Adrian Newey announced his exit from Red Bull in April 2024, marking the end of an era for the team.
