Christian Horner received a pay-out of £67 million after being sacked by Red Bull last summer. The Formula 1 team dismissed him after 20 years as team principal and CEO, following a turbulent 18-month period that included allegations of inappropriate behaviour, which he denied and which were twice dismissed after investigations.
Red Bull Technology Limited's 2025 financial report shows a severance payment of £66,988,000 for “compensation for loss of office.” An additional £9.029 million for “company contributions to money purchase pension schemes” brings the total cost to Red Bull to over £76 million.
Departure and contract details
Horner, aged 52, had been under contract with Red Bull until 2030. He was sacked in July 2025, 17 months after a female employee made allegations of sexual harassment and coercive, controlling behaviour. Those allegations were dismissed following two separate investigations.
According to Red Bull's accounts, Horner officially resigned as CEO on August 12, 2025. This is the only time he is referred to by name in the 46-page document, though the directors allude to the impact of his departure.
Directors' comments and financial performance
The report states: "Off track, the period saw a transition in senior management, with the departure of the long-serving CEO and the appointment of a successor to sustain operational consistency and stability." It also notes that "increases in the cost base are primarily driven by the costs associated with the restructuring of operations," despite a 6.5 per cent increase in turnover during the period, even as the team finished third in the Constructors' Championship.
Horner, who is married to Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, has remained outside F1 since his dismissal, though he was seen at the British Grand Prix this summer. He has publicly expressed a desire to join Ferrari, leading the Italian team to issue a statement supporting principal Fred Vasseur. He has also been linked with Alpine, owned by his ally Flavio Briatore, and Aston Martin, which already employs ex-Red Bull designer Adrian Newey.
Legacy and replacement
During his two decades, Horner oversaw eight drivers' and six constructors' championships. He was replaced by Frenchman Laurent Mekies, promoted from the second team Racing Bulls.
Reacting to his departure, Horner said he left with a "heavy heart," adding: "It's been an honour to be part of this incredible era of motorsport. I leave with immense pride in what we've achieved." Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff said at the time: "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."
