Christian Horner issued his first words following his sudden sack from Red Bull.
The 51-year-old Briton was released from his duties as the team’s principal on Wednesday with an announcement that shocked the world of Formula One.
Horner was the principal of F1’s longest serving team, running the Red Bull team for 20 years from its first season in 2005 until its current 2025 campaign.
Meanwhile, Horner led Red Bull’s rise from a back marker to the world champion. Horner oversaw the team’s 124 race wins, 107 pole positions, 287 podiums, six constructor world championships and eight driver world titles.
Horner issued his first official statement after being fired Wednesday evening.
Horner leaves Red Bull with a “heavy heart”
“After 20 years of incredible journey together, today it’s heartbreaking to say goodbye to the team I absolutely loved,” Horner wrote on Instagram.
“You guys, the incredible people in the factory, were all the hearts and souls we achieved. Win and lose, we stand up to each other at every stage, and I will never forget it.
“It is a privilege to be part of this epic team and lead this epic team and we are proud of our collective achievements and you guys.
“We would like to thank the incredible partners and fans who made it possible to go to the race. Your support has grown the team from a humble beginning to a Formula 1 powerhouse, claiming a six-constructor championship and an eight-driver championship.
“We likewise thank our rivals. There are no races at all. You challenge us, challenge us, get praise we didn’t dream of.
“Formula 1 is a sport built on relentless ambition, passion and respect. The rivalry was fierce, but the mutual willingness to innovate and raise the bar makes this journey very special.
“It was an honor to be part of this incredible age of motorsports. We leave with great pride in what we have achieved and what we have in our 2026 pipeline.
There was also footage of Horner’s emotional speech to staff at Red Bull’s Milton Keynes campus on Wednesday.
Horner will be replaced by Red Bull’s team principal and CEO by Laurent Mekies, promoted from Sister Team Racing Bulls.
Meanwhile, Alan Permane fills in the blank left by Racing Bulls Meki.