Christian Horner has been sacked by Red Bull with immediate effect after 20 years as team principal in Formula 1.

Horner had been in charge of Red Bull since 2005, leading the team to eight drivers' and six constructors' titles. Under his leadership, Red Bull recorded 124 wins, 107 pole positions and 287 podium finishes. Max Verstappen has been the drivers' champion for the past four years. Horner's last race as Red Bull boss was the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where Verstappen started from pole position but finished fifth.

Laurent Mekies replaces Horner as CEO of Red Bull Racing, moving from Racing Bulls.

"We would like to thank Christian Horner for his impressive work over the past 20 years. With his tireless dedication, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has played a fundamental role in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1. Thank you for everything, Christian, you will always remain an important part of our team's history", said Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff.

Horner has endured a turbulent 18 months both on and off the track. He was charged with inappropriate conduct towards a female colleague in February 2024. Last summer, the charge was dismissed after a successful appeal. Horner has always denied the charges.

This season has not been a strong one for RB. Verstappen is 69 points behind leader Oscar Piastre (McLaren) at the halfway point of the campaign. In the constructors' championship, Red Bull is in fourth place, 288 points behind leader McLaren, with Ferrari and Mercedes also ahead of them in the standings. In recent weeks, there has been talk of a possible parting with Verstappen. The Dutchman has a contract until 2028, but there is a clause that allows him to leave early. Speculation has linked the four-time world champion with a move to Mercedes.

Horner is the latest key figure to leave Red Bull, after legendary designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley left the team to join Aston Martin and Sauber, respectively. | BGNES