Record-Breaking Pay-Off Confirmed

Christian Horner has officially left Red Bull Racing after agreeing to a severance settlement following his dismissal as team principal in July. According to reports, Horner received around 60 million euros (£52 million) — one of the largest severance packages in sports history.

The 51-year-old had been with the team since its debut in 2005, earning an annual salary of 12 million euros (£10 million) under a contract that was due to run until 2030.

Leadership Legacy at Red Bull

During his 19 years at the helm, Horner guided Red Bull to eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles, establishing the team as a dominant force in Formula 1. His departure closes a remarkable era for the Milton Keynes-based outfit, which grew from an energy drinks brand’s gamble into one of motorsport’s most successful competitors.

Controversy and Decline in Competitiveness

Horner’s exit followed a turbulent 18 months marked by controversy. In February 2024, allegations of sexual harassment by a female employee became public. Although Horner was cleared twice — once through an internal investigation and later through an independent appeal — the saga highlighted internal power struggles and coincided with a decline in the team’s on-track performance.

The turbulence intensified with the loss of several key figures. Chief designer Adrian Newey left in April 2024, sporting director Jonathan Wheatley joined Sauber in July, and strategy head Will Courtenay departed for McLaren. These exits weakened Red Bull’s technical and operational strength.

Shareholder Rift and Final Dismissal

Horner’s relationship with Red Bull’s shareholders deteriorated early in the 2025 season. He lost the support of Chalerm Yoovidhya, Red Bull’s major stakeholder, and was dismissed by Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s CEO of corporate projects and investments, after a disappointing showing at the British Grand Prix.

In his statement, Mintzlaff thanked Horner for his “exceptional work” and praised his leadership, innovation, and role in building Red Bull into a Formula 1 powerhouse.

Horner’s Farewell Statement

Reflecting on his time at the team, Horner described his journey as “an honour and a privilege.” He highlighted his pride in assembling and leading “the most amazing group of talented and driven individuals” who turned Red Bull Racing into a team capable of defeating major automotive giants.

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FAQs

Q1: Why did Christian Horner leave Red Bull?
He was dismissed after internal disputes, declining team performance, and strained relations with shareholders.

Q2: How much was Horner’s severance pay?
Horner reportedly received 60 million euros (£52 million) in a settlement.

Q3: What were Horner’s achievements with Red Bull?
He led the team to eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles since 2005.

Q4: What controversies surrounded his final years?
Horner faced sexual harassment allegations in 2024, from which he was twice cleared, but the episode triggered internal unrest.

Q5: Who else left Red Bull during this period?
Key figures like Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, and Will Courtenay also departed, weakening the team’s structure.