In a dramatic shake-up that has sent shockwaves throughout the Formula 1 world, Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull has left fans and insiders alike reeling. McLaren’s CEO, Zak Brown, has weighed in on the matter, expressing surprise not at the outcome, but at the timing of Horner’s exit. The decision to remove Horner comes as Red Bull’s on-track performance has faltered, and internal tensions have reportedly escalated.
Horner, who was instrumental in Red Bull’s rise to prominence with multiple championship victories, has been a fixture in the paddock since the team’s establishment in 2005. However, the Milton Keynes outfit decided to part ways with the 51-year-old as the team’s fortunes began to wane and behind-the-scenes drama intensified. This decision coincides with Chalerm Yoovidhya, the heir to the Red Bull empire, relinquishing his controlling interest in Red Bull GmbH, signaling a significant shift within the organization.
Zak Brown, who has often been at odds with Horner, commented on the situation, stating, “Maybe the timing, but not the result,” when asked about the unexpected nature of Horner’s dismissal. He further elaborated, noting the ongoing tumult within Red Bull, “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, maybe even been getting worse. So, I’m not surprised, anytime in the middle of the season.”
The decision to axe Horner allegedly followed a strategic meeting spearheaded by Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff, marking a decisive moment in the team’s leadership overhaul. As the news reverberates, speculation about Horner’s next move has been rife. Rumors suggest potential roles at Ferrari or Alpine, yet Brown remains uncertain about Horner’s future plans. “I think given his age and his history in motor racing, I’d be surprised if he didn’t show up somewhere in motor racing,” Brown remarked. “But I don’t know his other interests, whether he wants to go run a football team or what have you. We’ll see.”
Meanwhile, Brown is laser-focused on McLaren’s objectives. With the Constructors’ Championship secured in 2024, his sights are set on achieving dual victories this season. “We’re head down on our championship. They’ve got Max [Verstappen] still knocking on the door, so we’ve got to pay attention to that,” he emphasized, underscoring McLaren’s competitive spirit and determination to capitalize on their current momentum.
As the dust settles on this seismic shift within Formula 1, all eyes are on what comes next for Christian Horner and how Red Bull will navigate this new chapter in their storied history.
