In a year filled with challenges for Christian Horner, the long-standing team principal of Red Bull Racing, the pressure seems to be mounting as rival Zak Brown has publicly stated that Horner should feel vulnerable in his position. McLaren’s CEO made the remarks following Red Bull’s disappointing performance last season, where they failed to secure the constructors' championship, a title they had held for multiple years. Brown specifically highlighted that in a competitive environment like Formula 1, any leader not performing at the highest level would certainly come under scrutiny.
Brown’s critique comes against the backdrop of Horner facing multiple allegations of 'inappropriate behaviour,' which he was cleared of by Red Bull’s parent company on two separate occasions. This controversy has understandably affected Horner’s reputation within the sport and among fans. In February 2025, Horner even faced backlash at the team launch event held at London’s O2 Arena, where some fans booed him as he took the stage. This incident was noted as a significant sign of dwindling support for the veteran team principal.
“I would think any of us would come under pressure when you are not performing at the highest level, on-track, off-track, with sponsors, relationships, and brands,” Brown explained, underscoring the interconnected nature of success in racing. He suggested that a less than warm reception from sponsors at the recent F1 launch could further exacerbate Horner's situation, noting that he would be uncomfortable sitting next to sponsors like OKX and Mastercard after being booed by fans.
The landscape for Red Bull’s management seems increasingly complicated, with several departures from key positions, including technical director Adrian Newey, who has left for McLaren. This exodus of top-tier talent raises questions about Red Bull’s stability and overall direction. Horner’s proactive leadership has previously led to immense success, with him overseeing eight drivers' titles and six constructors' championships. However, recent events have raised doubts over whether he can maintain that level of success.
Max Verstappen, while having secured his fourth drivers’ title in 2024, has not been as dominant lately as in past seasons, claiming only two victories in his last 15 races. Many observers have noted that this lack of success reflects a larger issue within the Red Bull team. While Verstappen’s talents remain indisputable, the effectiveness of the team’s overall performance has come into question, especially as competitors like McLaren gain ground.
“When I go and meet my board, I would not be feeling great,” Brown added, pointing out the potential questions board members might have regarding team dynamics and staff departures. With the likes of Newey and others leaving Red Bull, there are bound to be inquiries from upper management about the reasons behind their exit. Such a situation can create an uncomfortable environment for Horner as he navigates his responsibilities.
In a parallel narrative, Lando Norris from McLaren is on an impressive trajectory. Following his victory in Australia, he has demonstrated that he is more than capable of competing with Verstappen. Norris’s recent performance reflects a growth in confidence, as he seeks not only to challenge Verstappen but to establish himself as a formidable contender in his own right. Brown stated, “Lando has learned how to race Max,” further indicating that Norris has grown more aggressive in his racing style, which is essential for his upcoming battles this season.
Moreover, Brown reassured that McLaren is aptly prepared for the competition, mentioning that both he and team principal Andrea Stella have engaged in extensive planning to manage in-race incidents, which are almost inevitable in such a high-stakes environment. “Our conversations are around racing each other hard and fair,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of internal camaraderie, especially as they aim to avoid the kind of discord that previously plagued Hamilton and Rosberg at Mercedes.
The upcoming races in the season will demonstrate how effectively teams like Red Bull and McLaren adapt to their respective challenges. With both organizations stacked with talent and ambition, the stakes are higher than ever. For Horner, the pressure to reclaim Red Bull’s status as a dominant force is palpable. Whether he can navigate through both the scrutiny of fans and the challenges on track remains to be seen.
As the Formula 1 season continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Horner and Red Bull. Can they return to the top, or will the mounting pressures render Horner's position increasingly untenable? The motorsport world is eager to see how these dynamics play out, as uncertainty looms over what was once a dominant racing powerhouse.
