Christian Horner Departs Red Bull Racing; Laurent Mekies Takes Helm
In a sudden leadership shift, Red Bull Racing has announced the departure of CEO and team principal Christian Horner, effective immediately. This decision comes just three days after the British Grand Prix on July 9, 2025, with Laurent Mekies, formerly of sister team Racing Bulls, stepping in as his replacement.
Horner, who assumed command at Red Bull since its F1 inception in 2005, exits amid a notable performance decline. After a dominant 2023 season, Red Bull’s form faltered, finishing third last year and currently sitting fourth in the 2025 standings. His departure is also layered with internal strife within the Red Bull organization following the passing of founder Dietrich Mateschitz and subsequent management contests.
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, reflecting on the change, expressed surprise mainly at the timing rather than the outcome. “There’s been a lot of drama there the last couple of years, and it doesn’t seem like that drama has been calming down," Brown remarked. He noted Red Bull’s remaining competitive edge with driver Max Verstappen, emphasizing McLaren’s focus on its own championship pursuits.
While Horner’s future within motorsport remains uncertain, Brown anticipates his continued involvement. "Given his age and history in motors racing, I’d be surprised if he didn’t show up somewhere in motorsport," Brown added.
Under Brown’s leadership, McLaren broke Red Bull’s championship dominance by clinching the 2024 Constructors’ title and is poised to defend it this season, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in a tight battle for the Drivers’ Championship. McLaren also eyes expansion into other series, including a planned return to Le Mans in 2027.
McLaren continues to aim high in its competitive strategy, with Brown stating, "I feel like we’re on our way… but our ultimate goal is to win the Indy 500, win the IndyCar championship, win the Formula 1 constructors’ championship, win the Formula 1 drivers’ championship, and win Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship—then do it again."
This leadership transition signals a pivotal moment for Red Bull, necessitating a strategic realignment as the team seeks to regain its championship form.
