Source: Official Team Post via X
Christian Horner Reflects on Red Bull's Success and His Role in Max Verstappen's Wins
Despite leaving Red Bull under tense circumstances, Christian Horner's contributions to the team's 2026 engine are being acknowledged. Shareholders have privately expressed gratitude following Max Verstappen's recent victories.
Christian Horner may have departed Red Bull amidst a storm of behind-the-scenes drama in 2025, but his fingerprints are still all over their 2026 campaign. The former team principal played a pivotal role in transforming Red Bull into a self-sufficient engine manufacturer through Red Bull Powertrains, a project he nurtured with the dedication of a parent. Despite being ousted mid-2025 after heated exchanges with shareholders and disagreements with figures like CEO Oliver Mintzlaff and advisor Helmut Marko, Horner's influence is still felt.
In a recent interview on the Kidd in a Sweet Shop YouTube channel, Horner shared how Red Bull's recent successes, particularly Max Verstappen's wins in Malaysia and Singapore, have been bittersweet for him. Horner expressed a sense of pride in the engine's performance, likening its development journey to raising a child only to have it taken away. He noted the satisfaction of seeing the engine secure pole positions and win races, echoing the work ethic and culture he instilled during his tenure.
Horner revealed that after Verstappen's triumphs, he received gracious calls from Red Bull shareholders, including Mintzlaff, thanking him for his monumental efforts. Such appreciation likely serves as a balm for Horner, who feels 'robbed' to be watching from the sidelines rather than leading the charge.
Interestingly, Red Bull's current leadership under Laurent Mekies has taken the team in a new direction, focusing on modesty and teamwork over individual power. Mekies' approach has been warmly welcomed, contrasting with the power struggle that marked the end of Horner’s era. Mekies has managed to stabilize the team and even convinced Verstappen to renew his contract despite previous setbacks.
Horner, meanwhile, is exploring options for a potential return to Formula 1, ideally with an ownership stake, as he continues to seek new challenges. His tenure at Red Bull may have concluded, but the echoes of his hard work continue to reverberate through the paddock.