Helmut Marko addresses Christian Horner Red Bull exit as drivers break silence

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has shared a statement following the abrupt exit of Christian Horner. The Milton Keynes outfit announced on Wednesday that Horner had been removed from his role as team principal and CEO with immediate effect. 

Following the news of Horner’s exit, the team also confirmed that Laurent Mekies would move from his role as Racing Bulls team principal to Red Bull team chief and CEO. Taking Mekies’ position at the sister squad is Alan Permane, who was previously racing director.

In a statement following the news, Marko thanked Horner for the success that they shared during his 20-year tenure with the team, as well as commenting on the remainder of the 2025 season.

“Christian and I have worked together very successfully for over 20 years – both in Formula 1 and in Formula 3000,” Marko explained. “I would like to sincerely thank Christian for that. During this time, we were able to celebrate an incredible number of outstanding achievements. We helped developed two World Drivers’ Champions and several Grand Prix winners. That has always been – and still is – the Red Bull way.  

“As for the current sporting situation: there are still twelve races to go, and we will continue to fight for the Drivers’ Championship as long as it’s mathematically possible.”

Red Bull’s drivers, four-time champion Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda, have also broken their silence on social media following Horner’s firing. Verstappen, who won all four of his championship titles under Horner’s leadership, posted, “From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!”

Tsunoda, who moved up to Red Bull ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix earlier this year, thanked Horner for the support. 

“Thank you Christian for all the support you’ve given me this year,” the Japanese driver wrote. “It’s been amazing to see what you’ve built at Red Bull Racing and thank you for making me part of that. I’ve learned a lot and am grateful for everything.”

Red Bull currently sits fourth in the constructors’ standings with 172 points, 288 points behind championship leaders McLaren.