BREAKING: Christian Horner to Exit Red Bull Racing With Immediate Effect

Christian Horner is set to leave his role as Team Principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing with immediate effect, marking the end of one of the most successful and controversial eras in modern Formula 1.

Red Bull confirmed the news in a brief statement this morning, citing “strategic differences in leadership direction and organizational priorities” as the reason for the abrupt exit. Sources close to the team suggest growing internal tensions between Horner and Red Bull GmbH executives, particularly in the wake of recent controversies and shifting power dynamics following the death of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2022.

Christian Horner, 51, has led Red Bull Racing since its inception in 2005. Under his leadership, the team transformed from a midfield novelty into a dominant force in Formula 1, winning six Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ Championships, most recently with superstar driver Max Verstappen.

• 6 Constructors’ Championships
• 7 Drivers’ Championships
• Led Red Bull Racing since 2005

Horner was the youngest team principal on the grid when he took the helm and became widely respected for his shrewd management, media savvy, and fierce competitive spirit. He played a pivotal role in building Red Bull’s talent pipeline and shaping the team’s winning culture.

Horner’s position had come under increasing scrutiny over the past 18 months. In early 2024, he faced an internal investigation following allegations of misconduct, which, although officially dismissed, left lingering questions and intensified internal boardroom scrutiny. Reports have also pointed to a growing rift between Horner and Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, as well as tensions with Red Bull’s parent company in Austria.

The team’s decision to part ways comes as Formula 1 approaches the summer break, raising questions about stability heading into the second half of the 2025 season.

An interim leadership team is expected to be announced in the coming days, with speculation mounting around Technical Director Pierre Waché or Racing Director Jonathan Wheatley stepping in temporarily. Red Bull remains the team to beat on track, but off-track uncertainty may test its dominance.