Pressure is mounting on Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, and according to new international media reports, a dismissal could be imminent.
Internally within the team, there are both business and sporting tensions that could have a significant impact on Horner’s position.
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Lack of Results and Support
In 2024, Horner survived a crisis in which he was accused of inappropriate behavior.
At that time, he retained his position thanks to strong support from the Thai shareholders.
However, with fluctuating results in 2025 and an increased focus on cost-cutting, that support is now reportedly under pressure.
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Red Bull continues to have high expectations for Max Verstappen, but the RB21 car has yet to deliver at the same level as in previous years.
New updates are expected at the Italian Grand Prix in Imola on May 18, and the result there could be crucial.
Mentioned as Possible Successor
Alongside rumors about Horner, Oliver Oakes has stepped down as team principal at Alpine – a timing that has not gone unnoticed.
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The 37-year-old Oakes has previously been mentioned as a potential candidate to take over Red Bull, especially when Horner was under pressure in 2024.
Oakes has had success in lower racing classes and could represent a new chapter for Red Bull as the team prepares for the 2026 season, when it will compete with its own engines.
With major decisions ahead and a season that hasn’t started as hoped, Horner’s future is far from secure.
The coming weeks – and especially the Grand Prix in Imola – could prove crucial in determining whether Red Bull decides to change course in their management.
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Source: Racing.nl
