Christian Horner was fully aware of the ruthlessness in F1 from day one at Red Bull. Wednesday’s announcement of his release from operational duties shouldn’t have been surprising to him. Horner recalled being asked to wait in the car park while Red Bull’s legal team dismissed the team’s original principal.
Tensions arose between the Milton Keynes factory and Red Bull HQ in Salzburg when Red Bull took over, leading to stress points over drivers and building the car. Red Bull’s lack of understanding in engineering and F1 management caused conflicts, with pressure for personnel changes and disagreements over operational decisions.
Similarities to the past were evident in Horner’s sudden ousting, following disappointing races for the team. Appointed as Red Bull team principal in 2005, Horner became the youngest F1 team boss in history, reflecting on the brutal nature of F1 from his early days. Despite his abrupt departure, Horner’s legacy includes leading the team to 124 wins in 405 races under his stewardship.
