Lewis Hamilton reflected Christian Horner’s famous exit from Red Bull, revealing that the pair “didn’t hit it” when they first met, but he acknowledged his “surprising” contribution to Formula 1.
During the two-week gap between the UK and Belgian Grands Prix, Red Bull announced that he had parted ways with Horner.
Horner has been the principal of the Red Bull team since its founding in 2005.
Britton’s title was won by Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, making him one of the most successful team principals in Formula 1.
But for the past 12 months, things have become sour for Horner.
A scandal over Horner’s alleged inappropriate behavior has shaken the team.
It coincided with Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley’s departure.
Despite Verstappen winning the 2024 F1 driver title, Red Bull’s on-track form also suffered.
Red Bull’s inactive performance continued until this year, but Horner was also criticised for his handling of Sergio Perez.
Perez was dropped for Liam Lawson late last year despite being given a new contract early in the season.
Hamilton looks back at Horner’s exit
Since becoming Formula 1, Hamilton has often been one of Red Bull’s major rivals.
This was the case against Vettel in the early 2010s.
More memorable is that Hamilton was caught up in the Titanic scraps of Verstappen and Red Bull in 2021.
When asked about Horner’s departure at a FIA press conference held in Belgium on Wednesday, Hamilton admitted that “we didn’t hit it” when they first met in 2005.
However, the seven-time world champion praised Horner’s contributions and legacy.
“It’s nothing in my life,” Hamilton first said when asked about Horner. “It was incredible to see progress (at Red Bull).
“I was going to sit with Christian in 2005 and sit in his office and go to GP2. He was in Arden or something.
“It was amazing what he did with the team to see his progress. It was a big deal, and that’s what he brought to the team to run an organization that takes away the heart and skills.
“I wish him the best.”