Red Bull: Horner’s dismissal, a move to keep Verstappen? F1.

Surprise in Formula 1: Christian Horner Out of Red Bull

An announcement that shook the world of motorsports. Red Bull Racing has fired its team principal, Christian Horner, a decision that has generated surprise and speculation about the future of the team. This unprecedented move marks the end of an era, as Horner had been at the helm of the team since its debut in 2005, leading Red Bull to victory in 124 races, six constructors’ championships and eight drivers’. The news, communicated to Red Bull employees at the Milton Keynes factory, took the team and the Formula 1 community by surprise. Despite Horner appearing to remain calm and composed, his position had become a topic of debate and concern within the team.

“It’s one of the most important news we’ve had in F1.”

David Croft

Horner’s statement could be interpreted as a strategy to ensure the continuity of Max Verstappen, who has been linked to a possible move to Mercedes. This decision could be an attempt by Red Bull to keep their world champion and offer him the necessary conditions to continue achieving success. Despite Red Bull’s successes in 2022 and 2023, the team has faced internal tensions and on-track challenges. Sergio Pérez’s performance issues, the departure of key figures like Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley, and the difficulty in filling those voids have affected the team. The decline in car performance and Verstappen’s frustrations about the vehicles’ performance have highlighted the difficulties Red Bull is facing.

Verstappen’s situation has also influenced the decision. The driver has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave the team if he is not in the top three in the championship after the Hungarian Grand Prix. Rumors of a possible move to Mercedes and the growing concern of his environment have put pressure on Red Bull. In a press conference, Horner suggested that Red Bull should be prepared for Verstappen’s departure, indicating that the relationship between the team and the driver was at a turning point. Horner’s departure could be an attempt by Red Bull to keep its star and secure his future in the team. Horner’s future is uncertain. Despite having a contract until 2030, his influence in Formula 1 will depend on his next move. His relationships with important figures like John Elkann of Ferrari and Flavio Briatore could be key to his future. The dismissal of Horner opens a new chapter in the history of Red Bull and raises questions about the future of the team and Verstappen’s role in the team. The Formula 1 community will be watching the next moves.