Christian Horner has been sacked by Red Bull after 20 years as team principal, the team confirmed on Wednesday. Horner, who has been in charge of Red Bull's Formula 1 team since 2005, oversaw its dominant runs at the start of the 2010s and the current decade.

Internal Tensions and Leadership Changes

Sources within Red Bull have revealed that the atmosphere within the team has grown increasingly tense, exacerbated by struggles on the track this year and growing uncertainty about star driver Max Verstappen's future. A series of meetings took place over the past two weekends, including the team's home race, the Austrian Grand Prix, and the British Grand Prix. At least one of these meetings involved Verstappen and Oliver Mintzlaff, a senior figure on the company's corporate side who has long pushed for a change in leadership.

Horner's Legacy and Recent Challenges

Christian Horner became Red Bull team principal in 2005 and has been instrumental in the team's success, overseeing eight drivers' championships and six constructors' championships. However, recent years have seen significant challenges, including the departure of legendary technical director Adrian Newey to Aston Martin and a much-publicized falling-out with Jos Verstappen, father of Max.

Max Verstappen's Future

Max Verstappen's future with Red Bull has been a major topic of discussion this season, with Mercedes monitoring the status of exit clauses in his contract related to performance. Verstappen has been vocal about his issues with the car, adding to the frustrations within the team.

Red Bull's Statement

In a statement, Oliver Mintzlaff expressed gratitude for Horner's contributions: "We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years. 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."

New Leadership

Red Bull has confirmed that Alan Permane has replaced Laurent Mekies as team principal of the junior team, having previously been Racing Bulls director. This change marks a new chapter for Red Bull as they navigate the challenges ahead in Formula 1.