Christian Horner has shared his first public comments after being replaced as Red Bull Racing’s CEO and Team Principal, saying he leaves the operation “with a heavy heart” but “immense pride” over their Formula 1 journey and achievements.
A former racing driver and Formula 3000 team boss, Horner was given the chance to lead Red Bull into their first F1 season back in 2005 – becoming the sport’s youngest team boss at just 31 years of age.
Making key hires across the board, Horner oversaw Red Bull’s rise from points scorers to World Champions, with their tallies now standing at a whopping 107 pole positions, 124 race wins, 287 podiums, six Teams’ Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships.
Following Wednesday’s announcement of a managerial reshuffle, which sees Racing Bulls Team Principal Laurent Mekies take over as Red Bull’s new chief, and Alan Permane slot into the Frenchman’s former role, Horner took to social media to share his thoughts.
“After an incredible journey of 20 years together, it is with a heavy heart that today I say goodbye to the team I have absolutely loved,” read Horner’s message, which followed tributes from current Red Bull drivers Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda.
“Every one of you, the amazing people at the factory, have been the heart and soul of everything that we have achieved. Win and lose, every step of the way, we have stood by each other as one and I will never forget that.
“It’s been a privilege being part of and leading this epic team and I am so proud of our collective accomplishments and you all.
“Thanks to the amazing partners and fans who enabled us to go racing. Your support has helped grow the team from its humble beginnings to an F1 powerhouse that laid claim to six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships.
“Equally, thank you to our rivals, with[out] whom there would be no racing at all. You’ve pushed us, challenged us, and enabled us to achieve accolades we never dreamed possible. The competition has made every victory sweeter and every setback an opportunity to develop and grow.
“Formula 1 is a sport built on relentless ambition, passion, and respect. The rivalries have been fierce, but the mutual drive to innovate and raise the bar is what has made this journey so special.
“It’s been an honour to be part of this incredible era of motorsport. I leave with immense pride in what we’ve achieved and also with what’s in the pipeline for 2026 – and huge respect for everyone who’s made F1 the pinnacle it is today.”
