Horner makes shock reveal as Red Bull brace for team principal EXIT.
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Formula 1, has made a surprising revelation as the team braces for a significant departure.
The years 2025 and 2026 will usher in numerous changes to the sport, with Red Bull especially undergoing a significant transformation as the new season kicks off.To boost their prospects for 2025, the team dismissed Sergio Perez and elevated junior driver Liam Lawson to race with the main team this year.
However, adjustments in the driver lineup are just one of several significant changes anticipated for the team.The year 2025 will also be the last in their collaboration with Honda, and it will see the departure of key personnel such as technical chief Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley.
Wheatley is slated to take on the role of team principal for the Audi F1 project in 2026. However, he has reportedly commenced a period of gardening leave prior to his formal departure from the current team. This means that he cannot currently work for Sauber, which will transition into Audi in 2026.
In a surprising statement on the issue, Horner disclosed that he actually encouraged Wheatley to leave the team when Audi F1 made their offer. He explained that he saw it as an excellent opportunity for Wheatley and also a chance for Red Bull to elevate internal talent.Horner told Racing News365 that he’s confident the individual will be a valuable asset to Sauber.
Horner disclosed that he urged Jonathan Wheatley to depart from Red Bull.The role of a team principal varies greatly from one team to another, influenced by the specific responsibilities and functions it entails. It is largely focused on trackside activities.
Much will hinge on how he interacts with Mattia [Binotto].”He’s been ambitious about this for quite a while, so when the opportunity arose, I encouraged him to seize it.””It provides opportunities for others here at Red Bull and is a great chance for him in his career.
“I motivated and wholeheartedly backed him, urging him to go for it with enthusiasm. “Come on,” I said, “You’ll regret not trying!”it if you don’t.”
