Christian Horner delivered an emotional farewell speech to staff on Wednesday after being sacked as Red Bull boss, saying that leading the team had been the biggest privilege of his life.

Horner, who has led the Milton Keynes-based team since its entry into Formula One in 2005, was informed by Red Bull’s Austrian leadership on Tuesday night that he had been relieved of his duties after over 20 years at the helm.

“Yesterday I was informed by Red Bull that, operationally, I will no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward from after this gathering,” Horner told staff during an emotional address at the team’s factory, later shared by Sky Sports.

“I will still remain employed by the company, but operationally, the baton will be handed over. And that obviously came as a shock to myself, but what I’ve had time to do is to reflect over the last 12 hours or so. And I wanted to stand in front of all of you to break this news and just express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20 and a half years that I’ve been here.

“When I arrived 20 years ago, with a few less grey hairs, I walked into the team, I didn’t know what to expect, but I was immediately welcomed. And out of two rundown buildings, we started to build what became a powerhouse in Formula 1. Watching and being part of this team has been the biggest privilege in my life,” he added, with emotion in his voice, before being applauded by factory staff.

Horner oversaw Red Bull’s rise to the top of the sport, guiding the team to six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ titles, split between Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. However, a dip in performance over the past 18 months and the departure of key figures – including renowned technical chief Adrian Newey – appear to have contributed to his departure. Verstappen’s own future with the team also remains uncertain.

Despite no longer being involved operationally, Horner confirmed he would remain on Red Bull’s payroll for now, although it is unclear in what capacity.

MEKIES TAKES OVER AT RED BULL

Laurent Mekies, formerly the team principal of Red Bull’s sister outfit, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, has been appointed as Horner’s successor and will assume the dual role of CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull Racing with immediate effect. Alan Permane, the current Sporting Director, will take over Mekies’ responsibilities at Racing Bulls.

“Over the last year and a half it has been an absolute privilege to lead Visa Cash App Racing Bulls and I would like to thank all of our talented people both in Faenza and Milton Keynes,” said Mekies. “Looking to the future, I am excited to be taking on the role of CEO and Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing, one of the most successful and dynamic teams in the sport.

“It’s an honour to be part of this group of brilliant people that embody the Red Bull spirit. Together we will achieve great results, building on the incredible legacy left by Christian Horner during his two decades in charge.”

Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of Corporate Projects and Investments for Red Bull GmbH, also expressed his gratitude for Horner’s contributions to the team.

“We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years,” he 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.”

– Ends