Red Bull Racing shocked the sporting world when they decided to let go of Christian Horner. The Englishman was the longest-serving team principal up until his departure. Since taking over in 2005, Horner has led Red Bull to six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships, making it the best era for the team.
Despite the legacy he had built with the team, Red Bull chose to fire him for a variety of reasons. Just weeks after his abrupt departure, Horner may make his way back to the Formula 1 scene but with a massive twist.
Martin Brundle claims Christian Horner could return to F1 as an owner
Famed Formula 1 insider Martin Brundle claims that the former Red Bull leader could make an emphatic return to the paddock, but this time as an owner.
BREAKING: Christian Horner is to exit Red Bull Racing with immediate effect#F1 pic.twitter.com/v50mwnBlV6
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 9, 2025
Brundle writes via Sky Sports, “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.”
“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. I’d be pretty sure Christian will be back sooner than later, this time with some ownership and control,” the broadcaster adds.
Brundle strongly believes that Horner would return as an owner, but does not give his two cents on which team he might join in the future.
Helmut Marko reveals the real reason why Horner was fired
Red Bull’s advisor, Helmut Marko, recently spoke about Horner’s firing as well. He said to Sky Germany ahead of the Belgian GP, “The decision was made by the management – that is, Oliver Mintzlaff. We informed Christian Horner of it in London. At the same time, we officially thanked him for 20 years and eight world titles.”
Revealing the reason, Marko shockingly said, “It was the result of various factors. But primarily, performance was not quite where it should be.”
Considering Max Verstappen’s recent championship wins, it does come as a surprise that the team was not happy with Red Bull’s performance on the circuit.
BREAKING: Laurent Mekies takes over CEO duties at Red Bull Racing with immediate effect#F1 pic.twitter.com/z0VfUrVvA6
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 9, 2025
However, it must be mentioned that Red Bull lost the 2024 Constructors’ Championship to McLaren, and finished 3rd below Ferrari. They don’t look any closer this year as well, which explains why the Austrian team felt like a change was needed.
Marko also mentioned that Laurent Mekies, who was promoted from the Racing Bulls, will take up a role that has less scope than Horner had. Mekies, who is a former engineer, will primarily be focused on racing. It will be interesting to see how he leads the team and if he fulfills Red Bull bosses’ criteria under immense pressure.
