Christian Horner reflects on ‘shock’ Red Bull departure in emotional farewell
Christian Horner Bids Emotional Farewell to Red Bull Racing After Two Decades
After two decades at the helm of one of Formula 1’s most dominant teams, Christian Horner delivered an emotional farewell to Red Bull Racing staff on Wednesday, addressing his departure with a mixture of gratitude and shock.
The 51-year-old’s departure as Team Principal, first reported by Sky Sports, marked the end of an era at the Milton Keynes-based team. A video shared by the broadcaster showed Horner giving a heartfelt speech to Red Bull’s workforce, many of whom played a role in the team’s rise to Formula 1 supremacy.
"Yesterday I was informed by Red Bull that operationally I would no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward from after this gathering," Horner said, his voice heavy with emotion. "I will still remain employed by the company, but operationally the baton will be handed over. And that obviously came as a shock."
The announcement was delivered just 12 hours prior to his goodbye, leaving Horner little time to process the monumental shift in his career. Nonetheless, he used the moment to convey his gratitude to the colleagues he has worked alongside since Red Bull’s inception as an F1 team.
"What I have had time to do is to reflect over the last 12 hours or so, and I wanted to stand in front of all of you and just express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20 and a half years," Horner said, receiving applause from the room.
Red Bull’s Humble Beginnings
Recounting Red Bull’s humble beginnings in 2005 after the company’s acquisition of Jaguar Racing, Horner painted a vivid picture of the team’s transformation:
"Walking into two run-down buildings and working to build what became a powerhouse in Formula 1... Watching and being part of this team has been the biggest privilege in my life," he said.
Under Horner’s leadership, Red Bull evolved into one of the most formidable organizations in the sport, capturing six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships. His tenure saw the rise of legendary partnerships, most notably with four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel and current star Max Verstappen.
A Heartfelt Farewell
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Horner reflected on his career with immense pride:
"After an incredible journey of twenty years together, it is with a heavy heart that today I say goodbye to the Team I have absolutely loved," he wrote.
"Every one of you, the amazing people at the factory, have been the heart and soul of everything that we have achieved. Win and lose, every step of the way, we have stood by each other as one and I will never forget that. It's been a privilege being part of and leading this epic Team and I am so proud of our collective accomplishments and you all."
The End of an Era
Horner's departure marks the end of an era not only for Red Bull Racing but for Formula 1. For fans and colleagues alike, his legacy is cemented in the sport’s history as a symbol of ambition and success.
The next chapter for Red Bull remains uncertain, but for Horner, the foundation he laid remains a monumental contribution to the team. As F1 gears up for its next season, the paddock will undoubtedly feel the absence of one of its most iconic leaders.
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