Christian Horner, the long-serving Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, made a tearful farewell speech at the team's factory on Wednesday, admitting his dismissal after 20 years at the helm had come as a "shock." The 51-year-old was informed of his departure on Tuesday but was given the opportunity to address his former employees at Red Bull's UK base in Milton Keynes.

Footage of Horner's emotional address, during which he reportedly broke down in tears and received lengthy ovations from his colleagues, is now viral on social media.

"Shock" Dismissal and Gratitude

In his speech, Horner revealed the unexpected nature of his exit. "Yesterday, I was informed by Red Bull that operationally I would no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward," he stated.

He clarified his immediate status, adding, "I will still remain employed by the company, but, operationally the baton will be handed over." This employment refers to exit terms that will see him on gardening leave until the end of the year.

Horner conveyed his surprise and gratitude to the team. "It came as a shock to myself. I've had a chance to reflect over the last 12 hours and wanted to stand in front of all of you to break this news and to 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."

Reflecting on his tenure, he continued, "When I arrived 20 years ago, there were a few less grey hairs. I walked into a team and did not know what to expect but I was immediately welcomed and we started to build what became a powerhouse in F1. Watching and being part of this team, has been the biggest privilege of my life."

According to Sky Sports F1, Horner was not given a reason for his release, a detail also absent from Red Bull's official statement announcing the decision.

Backing Successor and Future Outlook

Horner spoke before Red Bull officially confirmed Laurent Mekies, stepping up from sister squad Racing Bulls, as his replacement. Despite his sudden exit, Horner expressed support for the incoming CEO.

"A new CEO will be announced shortly. I trust him and give him my full support. My instruction to him is to look after all of you." He concluded his address to the team with a poignant reflection on his efforts: "I have fought hard, I've done my best, I've put in a big shift and it now comes to a close."

Horner's leadership has been instrumental in Red Bull's two periods of Formula 1 dominance. Under his charge, Sebastian Vettel secured four consecutive drivers' and constructors' championships from 2010-2013, and Max Verstappen achieved four consecutive drivers' championships from 2021-2024. Red Bull also claimed constructors' titles in 2022 and 2023.

His departure comes as the team prepares to produce its own engine for the first time, coinciding with new regulations set for 2026. "What lies ahead with [Red Bull] Powertrains is truly exciting and I will just be very sad I won't be here to see the engine performance," Horner added.

Tribute to Rivals

Later on Wednesday, Horner posted a statement on social media, extending his gratitude not only to his former team but also, perhaps surprisingly, to Red Bull's rivals.

"Thank you to our rivals, with whom there would be no racing at all. You've pushed us, challenged us, and enabled us to achieve accolades we never dreamed possible," Horner wrote. He emphasized the role of competition in the sport: "The competition has made every victory sweeter and every setback an opportunity to develop and grow. Formula 1 is a sport built on relentless ambition, passion, and respect. The rivalries have been fierce, but the mutual drive to innovate and raise the bar is what has made this journey so special. It's been an honour to be part of this incredible era of motorsport. I leave with immense pride in what we've achieved and also with what's in the pipeline for 2026 - and huge respect for everyone who's made F1 the pinnacle it is today."