With immediate effect, Laurent Mekies will take over the duties of CEO at Red Bull Racing. As part of his change, Alan Permane, currently Racing Director, will be promoted to Team Principal at Racing Bulls.

The news is explosive as Mekies replaces Christian Horner who has been sofar the face of the Red Bull F1 team since the energy drinks company bought Jaguar and rebranded it for the 2005 season. He led Red Bull to two dominant periods, first with Sebastian Vettel winning four straight titles from 2010-13 and most recently with Max Verstappen doing the same from 2021-24.

It is unclear what sparked Horner’s shock exit. “We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years,” a statement from Red Bull CEO of corporate projects and investments Oliver Mintzlaff said.

“With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1.

“Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history.”

Laurent Mekies has been named Horner’s successor as Red Bull Racing CEO. Alan Permane takes over in charge of Red Bull’s second team, Racing Bulls, from Mekies.
“The last year and a half has been an absolute privilege to lead the team with Peter [Bayer, Racing Bulls CEO],” said Mekies.

“It has been an amazing adventure to contribute to the birth of Racing Bulls together with all our talented people.
“The spirit of the whole team is incredible, and I strongly believe that this is just the beginning.
“Alan is the perfect man to take over now and continue our path. He knows the team inside out and has always been an important pillar of our early successes.”