By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
Christian Horner, the former team principal of Red Bull Racing (Red Bull), has now formally left with an agreed severance payment following his dismissal - official wording: "released from his operational duties" - on 9 July 2025.
Although Red Bull has not published the amount of his payment, it is believed to be €60 million, making it one of the largest pay-outs in sporting history.
Horner, who is 51 years old, was in charge of the Red Bull Formula 1 team since it began in 2005 and delivered eight drivers' championship and six constructors' championship titles.
His salary was reportedly €12 million per annum, and his contract ran until 2030.
His dismissal followed a controversial period of 18 months, that began when a female employee accused him, in February 2024, of sexual harassment and coercive, controlling behaviour.
Horner was twice cleared of these claims.
Firstly after an internal investigation conducted by a lawyer, and, subsequently, by another lawyer who dismissed the complainant's appeal.
The revelation disclosed a power struggle within the Red Bull team which led to a loss of competitiveness.
Horner is probably laughing all the way to the bank!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘