Red Bull boss Christian Horner rumoured to be at risk of being sacked after Emilia Romagna Grand Prix: Reports

Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has endured several controversies in recent months. From scrutiny over the dip in performance of their F1 car, which reigning champion Max Verstappen is reportedly struggling with, to a misconduct complaint filed by a female employee, there’s been enough to keep Horner busy. Now, new media reports suggest Horner's position could once again be under serious threat. According to a Daily Mail report, Red Bull’s Austrian leadership, led by Mark Mateschitz — son of late co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz — is reportedly considering Horner's removal after the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Horner is said to have amassed significant influence within the company following Mateschitz’s death in 2022. Reports also suggest that both Jos and Max Verstappen are more closely aligned with the Austrian faction.So far, Horner has retained his role with the support of Red Bull's Thai ownership, led by Chalerm Yoovidhya — co-founder and 51 percent owner of Red Bull’s parent company, although not directly involved in Red Bull GmbH, which operates the F1 team.Austrian outlet oe24 has reported that the company is already exploring Horner’s possible successors, including former Alpine boss Oliver Oakes and ex-Scuderia AlphaTauri team principal Franz Tost.Horner is currently focused on keeping Red Bull competitive amid rising pressure from rivals — especially McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, and Mercedes driver George Russell. Verstappen has only secured one Grand Prix victory this year, in Japan, and has openly discussed his struggles with the pace of the current Red Bull car.Just before the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season, the misconduct case against Horner resurfaced, grabbing headlines again. An email allegedly containing evidence related to the complaint was reportedly sent to over 100 senior figures in F1. However, the issue faded from public attention as the season got underway, beginning with chaotic, rain-affected conditions in Australia.Also Read: Christian Horner says McLaren’s F1 success comes with a price — intense scrutiny and rising expectations Amid all this, Horner is now also dealing with speculation that Verstappen may be considering a move away from Red Bull, frustrated with ongoing performance issues. The Dutch driver has already stated he is getting the "maximum" possible out of the car.