F1 legend Nigel Mansell has warned that Red Bull Racing could face a period of instability and underperformance following the surprise departure of long-time team principal Christian Horner.
The 1992 world champion described the move as a “shock” and said the Milton Keynes-based outfit will feel the impact, particularly with the 2025 season fast approaching.
Red Bull announced on Wednesday that it had parted ways with Horner after more than two decades of leadership, during which time the team secured multiple drivers’ and constructors’ titles.
Horner’s replacement, Laurent Mekies, has been promoted from sister team Racing Bulls, becoming only the second team principal since the team’s inception in 2005.
A Bit of Shock and Horror
Mansell, who was with Horner at Silverstone just days before the announcement, said the news caught him completely off guard.
“I think just like the racing fans, I didn't know what Red Bull were doing so yeah it came as quite a shock and surprise,” Mansell told website Aceodds.
“I was with Red Bull and I spoke to Christian last weekend and there was no inference, no problems or anything. A bit of shock and a bit of horror really."
Mansell praised Horner’s legacy, saying his two decades at the helm should not be overlooked despite the suddenness of the split.
“No one really has the facts and it would not be professional of me to try and make an opinion but all I can say is the magnificent job Christian Horner has done for 20 years is a testament to his skill and his dedication to the sport. That shouldn't be forgotten.”
Mid-Season Timing Raises Concerns
Like many people, Mansell is baffled by the timing of Horner’s exit, with 12 races still left in the 2025 F1 season. He believes the decision could destabilize Red Bull as they navigate the critical latter half of the championship.
“To do this mid-season, whatever the reasons are, it’s not helpful for the team,” the Briton added.
“The team will miss him, there will be a transitional period. It will be a struggle for Red Bull to be as competitive as they would've wanted to be for 2025 now.”
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The former Williams and Ferrari charger emphasized the challenges of such a significant change
“It's very difficult to pass a comment on the inner workings of any team when you don't know the facts,” he said.
“All I'd say is motor racing is difficult enough without having these challenges come along at the time they have. Any team would have a huge challenge."
“Watch this space, whatever happens is going to be interesting, isn't it?”
With Laurent Mekies now tasked with leading Red Bull through the remainder of the season and beyond, all eyes will be on how the team adapts – and whether Mansell’s warning of a “struggle” proves accurate.
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