Lewis Hamilton has publicly acknowledged Christian Horner after the surprising news of Horner’s dismissal from Red Bull Racing, a position he held since the team’s founding in 2005. Horner’s departure shocked the Formula 1 community, especially as he led Red Bull to an impressive 14 titles over two decades, becoming a central figure within the team.</p>
Horner’s exit, which reportedly occurred without any explanation given, seems linked to internal conflicts dating back to early 2024. Despite multiple expressions of interest from Ferrari, Horner remained loyal to Red Bull until this abrupt split. Hamilton and Horner’s professional paths have often crossed, sometimes contentiously, since Hamilton began his F1 career in 2007, two years after Red Bull entered the sport.
During the pre-race press conference ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Hamilton was asked about Horner’s firing. He praised Horner for his remarkable leadership and the success he brought to Red Bull, recalling their initial encounter years ago.
“It doesn’t change anything in my life, so… what to say… I mean, the team has been, it’s been incredible to see the progress. I sat with Christian back in 2005. I remember sitting in his office – I was in Formula 3, looking to go into GP2 for his first year – and I remember sitting with him. I think, I don’t know if he was at Arden or something.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
Hamilton continued by emphasizing the skill and dedication Horner demonstrated in managing such a large, successful organization.
“I wouldn’t say we hit it off from the get-go, but to have seen his progression and his career, I think it was clearly remarkable what he did with the team, with a huge group of amazing people. And to really run an organization that big and that well takes talent and skill, and that’s what he brought to the team. So I wish him all the best.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
Insights From Lewis Hamilton on Ferrari’s Ongoing Development Efforts
Turning his attention to Ferrari, Hamilton shared details about the extensive work happening behind the scenes as the team prepares for upcoming races. During the recent weeks off, Hamilton has actively engaged in meetings with various team leaders and department heads to assess and improve the car’s performance.
He described the efforts made at Ferrari’s factory, where he spent several days reviewing past race data and organizing discussions to address the team’s challenges and future goals.
“I was at the factory two weeks, a couple days each week. We did preparation, naturally going over where we were on the previous race, things that we need to change. I hold a lot of meetings, so I’ve called on lots of meetings with the heads of the team, so I’ve sat with John, Benedetto and Fred in several meetings.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
Hamilton also outlined conversations focused on technical upgrades for the next season, covering key components such as the engine and suspension systems.
“I’ve sat with the head of our car development, with Loic, with also the heads of different departments, talking about engine for next year, talking about front suspension for next year, talking about rear suspension for next year, things that you want, issues that you have, that I have with this car.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
Hamilton’s Ambitions as Ferrari Heads to the Belgian Grand Prix
As Lewis Hamilton and the Ferrari team head to Spa-Francorchamps with an upgraded car package, expectations are high. Hamilton aims to leverage the improvements to secure his first podium finish with Ferrari, reflecting his commitment to the team’s progression amid a challenging season. His insights and leadership during preparations may play a crucial role in the team’s performance trajectory going forward.
The abrupt change at Red Bull with Horner’s exit and Hamilton’s evolving role at Ferrari highlight the shifting dynamics within Formula 1 as teams and personnel adapt to maintain competitive edges in a high-stakes environment.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lewis Hamilton vegan?
A. Race car driver Lewis Hamilton openly supports veganism. Additionally, he invests in businesses focused on plant-based products.