Two months after being fired as Red Bull Racing’s team principal, Christian Horner accepted the Red Bull retirement package, which officially terminated his relationship with the team.
CEO Oliver Mintzlaff said:
“His tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking helped him establish Red Bull Race as one of the most successful and engaging teams in Formula 1. All, Christian, you will remain an important part of our team’s history.”
The team’s statement did not provide details on terms of the settlement, but various outlets have figures between $700 million and $100 million.
Horner has led the Red Bull race since its founding in 2005, leading the team to six constructors championships, eight driver titles, a 124 Grand Prix victory and 107 poles.
He reported a salary of 12 million euros ($14.1 million) on the contract he ran until 2030 when he was released from duties in July and replaced by Laurent Mekies.
Reports say Horner may be allowed to return to Formula 1 with another team soon next year.
“The main races at Red Bull were honor and privilege,” Horner said.
“When we first started in 2005, none of us could imagine a journey ahead, whether it be championships, races, people, memories, etc. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved as a team.
“But for me, my greatest satisfaction is to assemble and guide the group of the most amazing groups of talented individuals, thrive as a subsidiary of an energy drinks company, and beat some of the world’s largest automotive brands.”
