Formula 1: Christian Horner Payout!
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 ‘
