Christian Horner was sacked by Purple Bull on Wednesday morning after 20 years in command of the Formulation 1 group and the 51-year-old has now spoken out on social media
Christian Horner has posted an emotionally charged message on social media after being sacked by Purple Bull. The previous group principal, whose 20-year tenure with the group got here to an abrupt finish on Wednesday, took to Instagram with a touching tribute to his Milton Keynes-based crew.
The transfer has shocked Formulation 1, with Max Verstappen additionally breaking his silence on Horner’s dismissal. Within the publish, Horner stated: “After an unimaginable journey of 20 years collectively, it’s with a heavy coronary heart that right now I say goodbye to the group I’ve completely liked. Each considered one of you, the wonderful individuals on the manufacturing unit, have been the guts and soul of the whole lot that we’ve achieved.
“Win and lose, each step of the best way, we’ve stood by one another as one and I’ll always remember that. It has been a privilege being a part of and main this epic group and I’m so pleased with our collective accomplishments and also you all. Due to the wonderful companions and followers who enabled us to go racing.
“Your assist has helped develop the group from its humble beginnings to an F1 powerhouse that laid declare to 6 Constructors Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships.
“Equally, thanks to our rivals, with whom there can be no racing in any respect. You have pushed us, challenged us, and enabled us to attain accolades we by no means dreamed potential. The competitors has made each victory sweeter and each setback a possibility to develop and develop.”
He continued: “Formulation 1 is a sport constructed on relentless ambition, ardour, and respect. The rivalries have been fierce, however the mutual drive to innovate and lift the bar is what has made this journey so particular.
“It has been an honour to be a part of this unimaginable period of motorsport. I depart with immense satisfaction in what we have achieved and likewise with what’s within the pipeline for 2026 – and big respect for everybody who’s made F1 the top it’s right now. Thank You. Christian.”
The publish was accompanied by a photograph of himself lifting a trophy at a grand prix. Horner concluded his message by tallying the group’s accomplishments below his management throughout his tenure, writing: “6 x Constructors, 8 x Drivers, 124 x (Grand Prix) Victories, 12 x Dash Wins, 287 x Podiums, 107 x Pole positions, 100 x Quickest Laps.”
A spokesperson for mother or father firm Purple Bull GmbH instructed Mirror Sport on Wednesday: “Purple Bull has launched Christian Horner from his operational duties with impact from right now.”
The corporate additionally confirmed: “Laurent Mekies has been promoted from Racing Bulls to switch him as CEO.” The Frenchman was group principal at Purple Bull’s sister group, having joined from Ferrari.
Oliver Mintzlaff, chief of Purple Bull’s sporting initiatives, stated: “We wish to thank Christian Horner for his distinctive work during the last 20 years.
“Together with his tireless dedication, expertise, experience and modern considering, he has been instrumental in establishing Purple Bull Racing as one of the crucial profitable and engaging groups in Formulation 1. Thanks for the whole lot, Christian, and you’ll eternally stay an necessary a part of our group historical past.”
His substitute Mekies stated: “The final yr and a half has been an absolute privilege to guide the group with Peter [Bayer, Racing Bulls CEO]. It has been a tremendous journey to contribute to the delivery of Racing Bulls along with all our gifted individuals.
“The spirit of the entire group is unimaginable, and I strongly imagine that that is just the start. Alan is the right man to take over now and proceed our path. He is aware of the group inside out and has all the time been an necessary pillar of our early successes.”
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