Christian Horner, the former Red Bull Racing team principal, was abruptly dismissed on July 9, 2025, shortly after the British Grand Prix, marking a significant turning point for the Milton Keynes-based team. Insiders attribute Horner’s exit to internal power struggles and changes following the death of Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz, raising questions about Horner’s future role in Formula 1.

Events Leading to Horner’s Departure from Red Bull

Early in 2024, Horner faced allegations of inappropriate behavior from a team employee, though a subsequent Red Bull investigation cleared him of any wrongdoing. However, tensions within the team escalated, particularly after comments from Jos Verstappen, who suggested Horner’s leadership was creating discord.

Horner’s tenure ended amid speculation that star driver Max Verstappen was considering a switch to Mercedes for the 2026 season, having held talks with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff in recent months. Compounding the situation was Red Bull’s declining car performance, which saw McLaren outpace the field regularly during the season.

Martin Brundle, an experienced F1 analyst, revealed that the death of Dietrich Mateschitz created a leadership void at Red Bull. Horner sought greater control over the team’s operations, which sparked a power struggle. Ultimately, after losing the crucial backing of the 51% shareholders, the Yoovidhya family, Red Bull’s Austrian headquarters decided to remove Horner at the earliest chance.

“Christian wanted full control of what he felt he’d created, and in the best interests of the team in a fast-moving highly specialised business. I rather suspect he overplayed his hand, and once the support of the 51 per cent shareholders Yoovidhya family fell away in the bigger picture, Red Bull Austria HQ parked Christian at the first opportunity,” said Martin Brundle, via Sky Sports.

“Given other events which have played out since Bahrain last year, especially regarding Max’s uniquely powerful and vociferous father Jos Verstappen, it was game over,” he added

Speculation About Horner’s Return to Formula 1 with Ownership Role

Following rumors that Horner might take over as Ferrari’s team principal, speculation ended when Ferrari confirmed the extension of Fred Vasseur’s contract on July 31. Despite this, Martin Brundle suggested that Horner’s return to Formula 1 was inevitable, but with increased authority in an ownership capacity rather than a managerial one.

“I’d be pretty sure Christian will be back sooner than later, this time with some ownership and control.”

In a surprising move, Horner returned to Red Bull’s Milton Keynes headquarters just 12 hours after his dismissal to address the staff. In his speech, he expressed shock at the decision and remarked that he had not been provided any official explanation for his sudden sacking.

Implications of Horner’s Exit and Future Prospects

Christian Horner’s departure represents a major shift within Red Bull Racing, particularly during a challenging period marked by performance setbacks and internal conflicts. The loss of a long-time team leader signals new dynamics in the team’s power structure, with the Yoovidhya family and Red Bull Austria taking a more assertive role.

Looking ahead, Horner’s potential return to Formula 1 as an owner could reshape the sport’s competitive landscape, possibly bringing a fresh vision backed by his extensive experience. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s future remains a key storyline for the coming seasons, as his career choices will heavily influence team strategies across the paddock.