Christian Horner is set to receive over £80 million as a payout from Red Bull following his sudden departure from the Formula 1 team. The 51-year-old, who had been in charge for two decades, was replaced by Laurent Mekies as team principal and chief executive after the British Grand Prix. Despite being under contract until 2030, Horner’s official termination as a director of all related UK-registered companies has been confirmed.
According to reports, the settlement deal between Horner and Red Bull includes the substantial compensation of more than £80 million. As is customary in Formula 1, Horner will undergo a period of gardening leave before potentially joining another team in the middle of the next season. However, current options for his next move appear limited, with Flavio Briatore ruling out any involvement with Alpine and no interest shown by new team Cadillac.
Horner’s tenure at Red Bull saw significant success, with eight drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships. However, tensions with Red Bull’s Austrian leadership grew following the passing of co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz. Despite support from majority owner Chalerm Yoovidhya, it was decided earlier this year that a change was necessary.
In the meantime, Mekies has taken over and made an immediate impact, guiding the team to recent victories. Red Bull will transition to a works team next year, developing their own engines in collaboration with Ford, a project initially overseen by Horner. Verstappen’s future with the team may be uncertain, with his manager hinting at potential changes if performance expectations are not met.