In a dramatic and unexpected twist that has sent shockwaves through the world of Formula 1, Christian Horner — the long-serving and highly influential Team Principal of Red Bull Racing — has been ousted in what insiders are calling the most explosive internal power struggle in the sport’s recent history. The coup, reportedly involving a staggering $1.1 billion financial shift within the Red Bull corporate structure, unfolded in just 48 hours and has left both fans and paddock veterans stunned.
Multiple high-level sources within Red Bull GmbH confirmed that a combination of mounting internal dissatisfaction, corporate restructuring, and unseen boardroom maneuvering led to Horner’s abrupt exit. The move, which appeared unthinkable just days prior, was driven by a powerful coalition of Red Bull’s European board members and senior partners in the Thai ownership bloc, all of whom reportedly grew concerned over Horner’s recent decisions, management style, and long-term vision for the team.
Tensions had been simmering behind the scenes for months, particularly after a series of controversial personnel moves and communication breakdowns between Red Bull Racing and its sister team, Visa Cash App RB (formerly AlphaTauri). Rumors of factional divisions between the Austrian and British branches of the team intensified after the departure of key technical staff and murmurs of dissatisfaction from reigning world champion Max Verstappen’s camp.
What pushed the situation over the edge, however, appears to be a high-stakes commercial deal worth over $1.1 billion involving future engine development, global sponsorship restructuring, and strategic alignment with Red Bull Powertrains. Insiders allege that Horner’s stance on this agreement diverged significantly from the rest of Red Bull’s global leadership, leading to a dramatic midnight vote of no confidence.
By the time the news was made public, senior figures in F1 management, including Stefano Domenicali and Mohammed Ben Sulayem, had already been informed. The FIA is said to be closely monitoring the fallout, concerned that Horner’s departure could destabilize the sport’s most dominant team and trigger a wider domino effect.
Red Bull has not officially named a successor, but interim leadership is expected to be assigned to Technical Director Pierre Waché, while speculation grows around the potential return of former Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul or even a surprise internal promotion.
The Formula 1 community is now bracing for the aftershocks. For fans, journalists, and insiders alike, one thing is clear: the Red Bull dynasty has entered a volatile new chapter — and the game has changed.
