Horner Out Mekies Takes Red Bull Helm

 

Red Bull Racing announced the immediate departure of long-time CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. Laurent Mekies, current Racing Bulls team boss, replaces him.

Key Points:

Immediate Exit: Horner, team principal since Red Bull's 2005 F1 debut, leaves after nearly 20 years "with immediate effect."

Successor Named: Laurent Mekies moves from his role as Racing Bulls Team Principal to become CEO of Red Bull Racing.

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Legacy Acknowledged: Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO Corporate Projects & Investments, thanked Horner for his "tireless commitment," crediting him as instrumental in making Red Bull "one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1," adding he "will forever remain an important part of our team history."

Racing Bulls Reshuffle: Alan Permane, the current Racing Bulls Racing Director, is promoted to Team Principal of Racing Bulls, filling Mekies' former seat.

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Mekies' Statement: Called leading Racing Bulls an "absolute privilege" and "amazing adventure," expressing belief in the team's future under Permane, whom he called the "perfect man" to continue their path.

Permane's Statement: Expressed feeling "very honoured," thanking Mintzlaff and Helmut Marko, and stating he looks forward to working with Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer.

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This sudden, high-level reshuffle removes the architect of Red Bull's dominant era at the peak of the team's success. Mekies faces immense pressure stepping into Horner's role, while Permane takes charge of the sister team. The move signals a significant new chapter for Red Bull's F1 operations.