Sports
Red Bull Pays £66m to Former Team Principal Christian Horner
By Graham Shaw
Christian Horner’s compensation package for 2025, following his dismissal by Red Bull in July 2025, has been disclosed in the company’s financial accounts. The 52‑year‑old Englishman was removed from his role as F1 team principal after a 20‑year tenure that produced eight Drivers’ titles and six Constructors’ crowns. The payout amounts to £66 million.
In other news, former Red Bull chief Helmut Marko criticised Formula 1 and the FIA for their handling of the Bahrain Grand Prix. The event at Sepang was delayed by 40 minutes due to heavy rain, and the start was aborted on the formation lap after several cars suffered power issues caused by a software glitch on the new 2026‑season cars.
Marko also disputed comments made by Horner regarding Max Verstappen’s early career with Red Bull. Verstappen, a four‑time world champion, has been a central figure in the team’s success.
Additional reports include a claim that George Russell will receive a grid penalty for the Singapore Grand Prix following a retirement from the Bahrain race due to a power‑unit failure. Lewis Hamilton praised his Ferrari team after a remarkable comeback from P18 to P3 at Bahrain.
Red Bull is also facing a talent drain, with key personnel such as Adrian Newey, Rob Marshall and Jonathan Wheatley leaving the organisation. A potential early move for Max Verstappen’s race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to McLaren has also been mentioned.
Frequently asked questions
How much compensation did Christian Horner receive from Red Bull?
Red Bull paid Christian Horner £66 million.
When was Christian Horner dismissed from Red Bull?
He was dismissed in July 2025.
Why was the start of the Bahrain Grand Prix aborted?
The start was aborted on the formation lap after several cars suffered power issues caused by a software glitch on the new 2026‑season cars.