BREAKING: Christian Horner has departed from Red Bull Racing ahead of schedule, terminating his contract with five years still remaining. He has accepted a lucrative offer from Ferrari worth $15 million per year.
In a dramatic development in Formula 1, Christian Horner has unexpectedly resigned as the Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, prematurely ending his contract that was scheduled to last until 2030. This decision comes after he received a record-breaking offer from Ferrari worth $15 million annually, making him the highest-paid team principal in the history of Formula 1.
Horner, who has led Red Bull Racing since its founding in 2005, departs with a legacy marked by extraordinary success. During his leadership, the team won six Constructors’ Championships and multiple Drivers’ Championships with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. His 19-year tenure has established him as one of the most esteemed and recognizable figures in motorsport.
Sources close to both teams confirm that Ferrari has been actively pursuing Horner in recent months, aiming to rejuvenate its Formula 1 program and reestablish itself as a consistent championship contender. Amid reports of Fred Vasseur’s tenure being internally reviewed, Ferrari considered Horner the perfect candidate to foster a winning mentality, modernize operations, and provide stable leadership.
The Italian team’s offer of $15 million per year—significantly more than the estimated $10 million Horner was making at Red Bull—was too tempting to refuse. Industry experts suggest that Ferrari also promised him greater responsibilities and influence over long-term projects, including involvement with their driver academy and technical departments.
“This is more than merely a financial transaction,” stated a senior Formula 1 analyst. “Ferrari is asserting its influence on the future of Formula 1. By bringing Horner onboard, they are investing in leadership, vision, and established success.”
Red Bull Racing conveyed their disappointment with Horner’s decision yet recognized his significant contributions. The team released a statement saying, “Christian has played a crucial role in crafting the Red Bull Racing legacy. Although we are saddened by his departure, we respect his choice and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
In a short statement following the announcement, Horner expressed: “Departing from Red Bull was one of the toughest choices I’ve ever made. I’m proud of all that we achieved together. Ferrari offered a unique and exciting challenge—one I felt drawn to embrace.”
The F1 paddock is buzzing with speculation about the impact this move will have on the competitive landscape. Ferrari has historically struggled to translate its potential into consistent success, frequently hindered by management instability and strategic mistakes. Horner’s arrival might signal a new era for the Scuderia.
For Red Bull, the hunt for a successor has already begun. Rumored candidates include Helmut Marko, Jonathan Wheatley, and even former McLaren boss Andreas Seidl.
With Horner’s high-profile transition, the 2025 Formula 1 season is set to be one of the most captivating in recent history. This not only heralds a new era for Ferrari but also reshapes the power dynamics at the pinnacle of the sport.
One thing is clear: Formula 1 will be forever changed.
