Laurent Mekies, principal and CEO of the New Red Bull Team, feels he is paying homage to the promotions from Racing Bull on behalf of Christian Horner, saying the team will achieve “great results” in the future.
Horner was removed from his position this week, and the 51-year-old led Red Bull as Formula 1 constructor from the first race in 2005. According to a statement, Horner said he was “freed from his operational duties,” and Red Bull relied on the Mekies to replace him in both roles.
The Frenchman intervenes from a major role in the team in Racing Bulls and says he is trading one special opportunity for another.
“It was an absolute privilege to lead the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls for half of the last year. I would like to thank both the talented people from Faenza and Milton Keynes,” says Mekies.
“Looking at the future, we are excited to take on the role of CEO and team principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing, one of the most successful and dynamic teams in the sport. It is an honor to be part of this glorious group that embodies the Red Bull Spirit.
“We achieve great results based on the incredible legacy that Christian Horner has left over during his 20 years of service.”
Mekies previously worked as Ferrari’s assistant team principal and as FIA’s assistant race director, but Racing Bulls is his first team principal position and believes the team is well established for future success.
“I would like to thank my heart for the incredible support we have received from you in half of last year’s adventures with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls,” he said in a video message. “I don’t want to feel I’m leaving. I stay with my family and go across the path, but more importantly, I know that the team will hold great hands with Peter and everyone else who, along with Alan, made this team special.”
We also thanked Horner for posting on social media. Red Bull has a short comment from longtime advisor Helmut Marco.
“Christian and I have worked together very well for over 20 years, both in Formula 1 and Formula 3000,” Marco said. “I would like to thank Christians for this wholeheartedly. During this time we were able to celebrate an incredible outstanding achievement. We helped develop two world driver champions and several Grand Prix winners.
“There are still 12 races on the current sporting situation. We will continue to fight for the driver’s championship, as long as it is mathematically possible.”
Max Verstappen also shared “I shared incredible success from my first race victory to four world championships. I won memorable races and beat countless records. Thanks for everything, Christian!”
