A significant ally of Christian Horner within the Red Bull ownership recently shifted his company’s shares over a month before the British team principal was dismissed from his Formula 1 role. Chalerm Yoovidhya transferred his entire 2% stake in Red Bull to a trust company based in Geneva on May 20, according to regulatory documents filed in Austria.
Red Bull was originally established in 1984 as a collaboration between Dietrich Mateschitz and Chaleo Yoovidhya. Chalerm, Chaleo’s eldest son, inherited the 2% shares, which he held for more than four decades. The recent transaction means Chalerm no longer directly holds any Red Bull shares, though the filing did not clarify the reason for this move.
Despite this share transfer, the Yuvidya family, Thailand’s wealthiest family, still maintains a 49% ownership stake in Red Bull after Chaleo passed away in 2012. The timing of Chalerm’s decision is notable, especially since he was regarded as a crucial supporter of Horner during the internal conflict that arose last year after allegations of misconduct against Horner by female staff.
Chalerm’s backing was seen as essential for Horner to withstand the controversy and guide Red Bull to its fourth consecutive driver’s championship with Max Verstappen. However, after Horner’s dismissal was confirmed on Wednesday, Sky TV presenter Craig Slater indicated that Chalerm’s support had waned. Slater commented, “My understanding is that Tai’s support has finally disappeared. Horner could no longer count on him, making him vulnerable. The Austrian side of the company is trying to shift the balance.”
Fan Take: This development reveals the deep internal dynamics at Red Bull, underscoring the high stakes involved beyond the track. For racing fans, Horner’s exit and the shifting power within Red Bull could reshape the team’s leadership and strategy, potentially impacting their dominance in the sport.
