July 09, (THEWILL) — Red Bull Racing has terminated Christian Horner’s position following 20 years at the helm, with Laurent Mekies taking over as CEO with immediate effect from Wednesday, 9 July 2025.
The Milton Keynes-based team announced the leadership change through an official statement, marking the end of Horner’s remarkable tenure that began when Red Bull purchased the Jaguar F1 team in 2005.
Mekies becomes the first person to lead Red Bull other than Horner, stepping up from his previous role at Racing Bulls, whilst Alan Permane assumes control of the sister team.
The timing of Horner’s departure coincides with Red Bull’s most challenging period in recent years, with the team currently sitting fourth in the constructors’ championship despite Max Verstappen’s individual brilliance.
McLaren has emerged as the dominant force in 2025, leaving both Red Bull and Verstappen facing an uphill battle to reclaim their championship-winning form.
The Austrian energy drink company’s decision reflects mounting pressure to address the team’s declining competitiveness and inability to produce a car capable of matching their previous dominance.
Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull CEO of corporate projects and investments, acknowledged Horner’s contributions in the official statement, noting his “exceptional work over the last 20 years” and his role in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of Formula 1’s most successful teams.
Horner’s legacy includes overseeing Sebastian Vettel’s four consecutive world championships from 2010 to 2013 and Verstappen’s four titles since 2021.
His departure removes a key figure who had weathered various controversies, including a 2024 investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour by a female employee, which was subsequently dismissed.
The management restructure arrives amid intensifying speculation about Verstappen’s future with the team, with Mercedes reportedly courting the four-time world champion’s services ahead of the 2026 regulation changes.
Mekies, who previously worked at Ferrari and has extensive Formula 1 experience, inherits a team in transition and faces the immediate challenge of revitalising Red Bull’s championship ambitions.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
