Sebastian Vettel Reacts to Christian Horner’s Shocking Exit from Red Bull Racing
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has shared his thoughts on the sudden departure of Christian Horner from Red Bull Racing, admitting that the news caught him completely off guard. Horner’s exit, announced just days after the British Grand Prix, marked the end of a remarkable 20-year tenure that had defined Red Bull’s dominance and identity in Formula 1.
The British team principal, who had led Red Bull since its inception in 2005, was instrumental in building one of the most successful dynasties in modern motorsport. Under his leadership, Red Bull claimed multiple Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships, including Vettel’s four consecutive titles from 2010 to 2013. His sudden removal from the role sent shockwaves across the paddock and among fans, given his long-standing influence on the team’s success and culture.
Red Bull confirmed that Laurent Mekies, formerly the head of the Racing Bulls (Red Bull’s sister team), would step up to replace Horner as team principal. Mekies, who had only spent a year and a half in charge of the junior squad, now faces the enormous task of maintaining Red Bull’s competitive edge amid one of the most dominant eras in the sport’s history.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Vettel expressed his astonishment at the decision and reflected on Horner’s immense contribution to both Red Bull and the sport. “Surprised,” Vettel said when asked about his reaction. “Christian has been there for so long, since the very beginning, and he knows this team inside out. I think for this year, everything was in place for success.”
Vettel’s words underscore the deep connection he shares with Horner, as the pair worked closely during Red Bull’s golden era in the early 2010s. Together, they built a dynasty that redefined Formula 1, breaking the stranglehold of established teams like Ferrari and McLaren. For many, Horner’s leadership style—decisive yet adaptable—was key to creating the perfect environment for Vettel to thrive.
However, with Horner now gone, Red Bull faces a new chapter under Mekies’ guidance. Reports from within the team suggest that the Frenchman has already introduced a calmer and more collaborative atmosphere, earning praise from several senior figures. Vettel acknowledged Mekies’ strengths but also highlighted the enormous challenge of succeeding someone as influential as Horner.
“I know Laurent as well—the successor—and I’ve worked with him before,” Vettel continued. “He’s a really great person, but Christian left some very big footsteps. Not just because of all the success he’s had with the team, but also because he was such a central part of it. He knew everything that was going on.”
Indeed, Horner’s role extended far beyond team strategy or race-day management. He was deeply involved in every aspect of Red Bull Racing’s operations—from nurturing talent within the Red Bull Junior Program to steering long-term technical partnerships with engine suppliers and sponsors. His ability to balance internal team politics with external pressures made him one of the most respected and enduring figures in Formula 1 management.
Vettel, who has always been known for his measured and insightful opinions, refrained from making any predictions about Red Bull’s future under its new leadership. Instead, he urged patience and perspective, emphasizing that transitions of this magnitude take time to evaluate.
“I’m not completely aware of the internal organisation or the structure right now, and especially the plan for the future,” he said. “That’s why I think it’s fair to say we should wait and see how things turn out.”
While Vettel’s comments reflect admiration and respect for both Horner and Mekies, they also capture a broader sentiment across the F1 community—one of uncertainty and cautious optimism. Red Bull has enjoyed unparalleled dominance in recent seasons, largely thanks to the synergy between Horner, chief technical officer Adrian Newey, and star driver Max Verstappen. With one key piece of that trio now gone, many wonder how the dynamics will evolve.
For Vettel, who owes much of his career success to the structure Horner built, the news marks the end of an era. Yet his balanced response also suggests faith in Red Bull’s ability to adapt. “Red Bull has always been strong because of the people behind it,” he said. “Change is part of Formula 1, and sometimes it brings opportunities that no one expects.”
As the team continues to adjust under Mekies’ leadership, fans and rivals alike will be watching closely to see whether Red Bull can maintain its dominance—or if Horner’s absence will mark the beginning of a new, more unpredictable chapter in the team’s storied history.
