Horner's dismissal is a consequence of losing the power struggle.
The decision by the Red Bull corporation to immediately fire Christian Horner from his position as Red Bull Racing team principal shocked the racing world. Even more questions were raised by the fact that the company did not explain the motives behind the decision. However, Sky Sports' British correspondent Craig Slater believes that Horner's dismissal resulted from a power struggle within Red Bull.
"When it comes to the reasons for Horner's departure from Red Bull, it is necessary to recall the disagreements that have existed within the team in recent years," Slater said in a news segment on Sky Sports. "Partly, this is related to the composition of the shareholders. 49% of Red Bull is owned by the Mateschitz family, specifically his son Mark. It was the Austrian shareholders who largely controlled various sports projects, including the Formula 1 team.
The remaining 51% of the shares are owned by Thai owners. Chalerm Yuwildya has been an ally of Horner in recent years, including when one of the employees made allegations against Christian, which were dismissed after investigations.
Throughout this time, Chalerm Yuwildya supported Christian Horner, but as I understand it, that support has now waned.
Another aspect of all this is the tense relationship between Horner and the Verstappen family, especially with Jos, Max's father.
Over the past year or so, a number of high-ranking specialists have left the team. Jonathan Wheatley, chief engineer Adrian Newey, Rob Marshall, who achieved great success at McLaren, among others.
Red Bull is trying to develop an engine for 2026, but I think there is tension within the team, the successes on the track have decreased, which affects the image—and image is important for Red Bull, because they sell drinks.
In the last couple of years, it has seemed that there are no happy people in the team, if I may say so.
Nevertheless, the dismissal was a huge surprise, as the team continues to win races, including this year, and Horner played a crucial role in shaping what the team is today. He built it from a very small team.
I believe this marks the final end of the power struggle that has been ongoing within the team for the past couple of years. Ultimately, Christian Horner lost the battle for control."
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Horner's dismissal is a consequence of losing the power struggle.
Red Bull's decision to immediately dismiss Christian Horner from his position as head of Red Bull Racing shocked the racing world. Even more questions were raised by the fact that the company did not explain the motives behind the decision.