Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull hit hard for a lot of people inside the team. He had been there for 20 years, making him the longest-serving team principal in Formula 1.
Even among those who understood why the decision was made, there is a sense that Horner deserved a better send-off. Reports have suggested he was not even given a reason when he was let go.
The mood around Red Bull was subdued at Spa-Francorchamps, where Laurent Mekies took charge for the first time. By the time they reached Hungary, things had started to settle down a bit, but there are still issues lingering from Horner’s exit.
Max Verstappen did say in Budapest that he plans to stay with Red Bull next season. Still, there may be more changes ahead beyond just what happens on the track.
Red Bull’s links to Horner could spark more staff changes
In his ‘Green Notebook’, journalist Joe Saward noted that Red Bull always felt Verstappen would remain with the team. Their bigger concern was the potential loss of key staff members behind the scenes.
Horner, meanwhile, has not formally left Red Bull as a company. He has just been removed from his role as team principal and CEO. Talks over his settlement are still ongoing, given he’s still under contract, and it does not sound like a quick resolution is expected.
Saward has also reported that several staff members have contractual ties to Horner written into their deals. There are worries that those individuals could leave without having to serve any period of gardening leave.
Earlier reports had already highlighted Red Bull’s concerns about a possible wave of departures. This appears to be how that could unfold, with other teams already showing interest in those affected.
How F1 viewed Red Bull during Horner’s time in charge
There is a general feeling that Horner will return to F1 at some point. When he does, he will likely look to bring familiar faces with him.
The Brit will want to have control wherever he lands next, so it seems unlikely he would join a team where someone else already has all the power. There has even been talk about him buying into Alpine.
McLaren boss Zak Brown thinks the sport might be less political without Horner around, though that might only be a short-term change.
Horner’s style did not sit well with everyone in the paddock. His sharp comments built up some resentment and contributed to Red Bull’s reputation for arrogance – though teams at the top often get labelled that way.
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