Christian Horner “never” considered leaving F1 despite the scandal

Christian Horner insisted that he never, ever considered leaving F1 after the scandal that hit his team Red Bull and himself.

Red Bull was shaken on the eve of the 2024 season by allegations of inappropriate behavior and authoritarian management against the team director, Christian Horner.

The 51-year-old Briton denied these accusations and was ultimately cleared following an internal investigation into his behavior towards a colleague, whose appeal was subsequently rejected.

This scandal nearly destabilized Red Bull, causing political turbulence within the team, as Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, demanded Christian Horner’s resignation. In the wake of this controversy, doubts also arose regarding the future of Max Verstappen himself.

Red Bull experienced a competitive decline in the middle of the season, but Max Verstappen nonetheless clinched his fourth consecutive world title, despite the pressure from Lando Norris and McLaren.

However, the team did not manage to retain their constructors’ championship title, finishing third behind McLaren and Ferrari.

Read also: New turn in the Horner case

An undiminished passion for the Red Bull boss

« It was certainly a very difficult year », acknowledged Christian Horner. « There was a lot to manage, but we always remained focused on the track. »

« Obviously, we have made some changes in the team, but we are evolving with the future in mind, and I think we are well-prepared for it. My passion has always been competition. It’s what gets me up in the morning. Once a racer, always a racer. When the lights go out, that’s all that matters », he says.

Despite the problems encountered on and off the track, Christian Horner emphasized that he never considered leaving his position. « That thought never crossed my mind, honestly », he stated.

« There is a very exciting next chapter coming with Red Bull Powertrains – it is the biggest challenge we have faced in 20 years of being in this sport. I think this chapter could be one of the most thrilling. In this business, we are always learning. »

Red Bull has nevertheless lost several key figures ahead of the 2025 season. Adrian Newey, the legendary F1 designer, left the team following the controversy involving Christian Horner. He has joined Aston Martin and will begin his new role on March 2.

The sporting director Jonathan Wheatley has also left Red Bull to become the team principal at Sauber, which will become the official Audi team in 2026.