For the first time in two decades, Christian Horner was not present at the Belgian Grand Prix weekend as Red Bull competed at Spa. The long-serving team principal was unexpectedly dismissed during the three-week break between races amid mounting pressure on the team’s recent results. Horner’s sudden exit marked a major shift in the stable leadership of the Red Bull racing outfit.
Laurent Mekies, Racing Bulls chief, took over Horner’s responsibilities, leading the team at Spa while Horner stayed away from the Formula 1 paddock for the first time since 2005. Although mostly silent following his departure announcement, Horner resurfaced on social media by sharing moments from his non-racing activities during the Belgian GP weekend.
Finding Solace at His Oxfordshire Stables
Rather than staying indoors during the Belgian Grand Prix, Horner chose to spend time at his stables in the English countryside. Known for his passion for horses, Horner was seen riding one of his horses along country lanes, contrasting sharply with the high-octane environment of the F1 weekend. His social media post featured a lighthearted pun:
Different horse power this Sunday (winky face).
—Christian Horner
The horse riding getaway reflects Horner’s long-standing equestrian interests, shared deeply with his wife, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell. Their Oxfordshire estate features a 14-horse stable complete with two foaling stalls, highlighting the significance of horses in their family life.
The Couple’s Unique Connection to Horse Racing
Christian Horner and Geri Halliwell have combined their love for horses with a fun personal touch, naming their horses after Geri’s solo music singles such as ‘Lift Me Up’, ‘Mi Chico Latino’, and ‘Look at Me.’ There’s even a tribute to her cover of the Weathergirls’ hit ‘It’s Raining Men.’ Their horses actively compete in professional races, with recent successes at venues including Cheltenham and Warwick Racecourse. Earlier this year, they celebrated a victory at Warwick, underscoring their competitive presence in the horse racing world.
Speaking to The Telegraph about their passion, Horner explained how the equestrian life offers a welcome respite:
I love it. A bit of escapism, away from the madness of F1,
—Christian Horner
We don’t really know what we’re doing but it’s exciting. It’s something Geri and I both get a kick out of and something we enjoy as a family.
—Christian Horner
What Lies Ahead After Horner’s Departure
Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull at a critical juncture introduces uncertainty not only for the team’s leadership but also for his own future pursuits. Embracing time with his family and stable horses may serve as a therapeutic counterbalance to the intense pressures experienced during two decades at the helm of one of Formula 1’s most successful teams. Meanwhile, Red Bull and its new principal Mekies face the challenge of maintaining strong performances as the F1 season progresses, including upcoming races such as the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Horner’s choice to spend the Belgian GP weekend far from the track yet deeply connected to his personal passions highlights a moment of reflection and calm after a turbulent change in his career.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, the number 13 is permitted. Pastor Maldonado actually chose to use it when the fixed number system started in 2014. Although some cultures see it as unlucky, Formula 1 let drivers decide their own numbers.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton’s experiences with ADHD and dyslexia have impacted both his personal and professional life. His journey challenges the traditional ideas of success in Formula 1. It also highlights why it is important to acknowledge learning differences.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. Rules for picking an F1 driver number: Drivers can select a permanent number ranging from 2 to 99, but 17 is not allowed.