Red Bull has officially parted ways with former team boss Christian Horner. The Briton was replaced by Laurent Mekies after the British Grand Prix, but now the collaboration has been definitively dissolved. Reportedly, Horner has secured a substantial severance package. Moreover, he could potentially return to Formula 1 in 2026, albeit not immediately with a competing team.
Christian Horner was dismissed by Red Bull shortly after the British Grand Prix and almost immediately replaced by Laurent Mekies. Since then, protracted negotiations took place between Horner and the management of the energy drink conglomerate. The agreement was officially confirmed on Monday. No details about the exact terms of the deal have been released, but British sources suggest a settlement worth 100 million dollars has been reached. This compensates Horner for the salary and bonuses he was contractually entitled to receive.
A notable part of the arrangement is that Horner has the opportunity to return to Formula 1 in 2026. According to The Race, there is a temporary restriction; he cannot immediately join a rival team. It is expected that he can assume a role within the premier class again in the first half of 2026, after the opening races. What his next step will be remains unclear for now. His experience and track record make him an attractive candidate for a role in Formula 1.
