Max Verstappen has sent Christian Horner a touching message on social media in the wake of his sacking at Red Bull.
Horner has had his Red Bull contract as team principal and CEO scrapped after 20 years with the team.
During the Briton's time in charge, Red Bull have seen unprecedented success, with Verstappen winning the world title four years in a row from 2021 to 2024.
However, amid tensions behind the scenes and a sexting scandal last year, the decision was made to sack him midway through the season - just days after the British Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen has sent Christian Horner a warm message on social media
GETTYWriting on Instagram, Verstappen said: "From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes.
"Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"
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Red Bull made the announcement official on Wednesday morning, writing in a statement: "Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today (Wednesday 9 July 2025) and has appointed Laurent Mekies as CEO of Red Bull Racing.
"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."
Horner is said to have made his goodbyes to his Red Bull team on Wednesday morning at their factory at 10am.
The 51-year-old has held the role since 2005, overseeing eight drivers' champions and six constructors' championships during that spell.
That includes Verstappen's four world titles, as well as Sebastian Vettel, who also won four.
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There have been major doubts over Verstappen's own future at Red Bull in recent weeks, which might have contributed to the decision to axe Horner.
There have been reports of tension with the Dutchman's father, Jos, who said in March 2024: "There is tension here while he remains in position. The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is.”
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