Jeremy Clarkson has sent a message to Christian Horner following his dismissal from Red Bull on Wednesday.
The 51-year-old Briton was relieved of his duties, with the team choosing to replace him with Laurent Mekies.
The shock departure comes after 20 years of dedicated service that transformed Red Bull into one of the sport's most successful operations.
Many have expressed their surprise at the sudden nature of the dismissal. Former Top Gear presenter Clarkson took to X to acknowledge the departure, writing: "After 20 years with the team, Christian Horner departs Oracle Red Bull racing."
Jeremy Clarkson has sent a message to Christian Horner following his dismissal from Red Bull on Wednesday
PA
He then added: "Good luck in your future endeavour's Christian!"
Horner's departure marks the end of an extraordinary era at Red Bull, during which he oversaw a combined total of 14 World Championships across both drivers' and constructors' categories.
Under his leadership, the team secured more than 107 pole positions and achieved 124 race victories.
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After 20 years with the team, Christian Horner departs Oracle Red Bull racing.
— ClarksonsFarm (@ClarksonsFarm1) July 9, 2025
Good luck in your future endeavor’s Christian! 🍻 pic.twitter.com/ag9hxARpK0
The Milton Keynes outfit also celebrated 287 podium finishes during Horner's tenure, establishing Red Bull as a dominant force in Formula One.
Despite these achievements, recent disappointing results on track had led some to speculate about potential changes at the team's leadership level.
Mekies has been named as Horner's replacement, taking on the substantial responsibility of leading the Milton Keynes team.
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The French engineer joined Racing Bulls as team principal last year after departing Ferrari in 2023, where he delivered promising results in his new role.
The appointment represents a significant promotion for Mekies, who will now oversee one of Formula One's most successful operations.
In a farewell address to Red Bull staff, Horner acknowledged his surprise at the sudden termination of his role.
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He expressed gratitude to the team for their collective accomplishments throughout his 20-year leadership.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen has paid tribute to Horner following his exit from the team.
Verstappen wrote on X: "From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes.
Christian Horner has lost his job at Red Bull after 20 years in the role of team principalGETTY"Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"
The Dutchman has been linked with a move away from Red Bull, with both Mercedes and Aston Martin emerging as potential suitors.
He is, however, now expected to stay put.