Red Bull has lost several key figures across the past 18 months, most notably design legend Adrian Newey, Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley, and Chief Designer Rob Marshall. The sacking of Horner means that a fourth pillar of long-term success is gone.

Laurent Mekies, the boss of sister team Racing Bulls, will replace Horner, who has been with the team since its inception in 2005 and led it to 124 wins and numerous championships.