Max Verstappen and Laurent Mekies have issued their first statements after the sacking of Christian Horner by Pink Bull.
Horner left his job on Wednesday morning, after the F1 British Grand Prix, ending his exceptional legacy with the group.
It provides additional complexity to the doubts round the way forward for Pink Bull’s star driver Verstappen.
Mekies, who led Pink Bull’s sister Racing Bulls, has been confirmed as Horner’s substitute.
Max Verstappen’s first phrases after the exit of Horner have been posted to his social media account.
“From my first race win, to 4 world championships, we’ve shared unbelievable successes,” he stated.
“Profitable memorable races and breaking numerous data. Thanks for the whole lot, Christian!”
Horner oversaw all 4 of Verstappen’s F1 drivers’ championships.
Verstappen and Pink Bull claimed prime spot in F1 on the disputed 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, edging Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton to the title in controversial trend.
From there, their dominance collectively grew and Verstappen is now established as the most effective driver on the grid.
However the equipment at his disposal has misplaced competitiveness, and Verstappen is lagging behind Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris within the drivers’ standings this 12 months.
There may be an exit clause in his contract which may result in his departure from Pink Bull.
Mercedes have been credited with a eager curiosity as Verstappen seeks the absolute best automotive for 2026.
However, with Horner now gone, a brand new period will start at Pink Bull which may power a re-think from Verstappen.
Laurent Mekies vows to ‘obtain nice outcomes’ for Pink Bull
Laurent Mekies
That period can be led by Mekies, promoted from the Racing Bulls group.
Mekies’ first assertion in his new job stated: “During the last 12 months and a half it has been a fully privilege to steer Visa Money App Racing Bulls and I wish to thank all of our proficient individuals each in Faenza and Milton Keynes.
“Seeking to the longer term, I’m excited to be taking up the position of CEO and group principal of Oracle Pink Bull Racing, probably the most profitable and dynamic groups within the sport.
“It’s an honour to be a part of this group of sensible those who embody the Pink Bull spirit.
“Collectively we are going to obtain nice outcomes, constructing on the unbelievable legacy left by Christian Horner throughout his 20 years in cost.”
Mekies is effectively accustomed to the motive force modifications which may occur inside the Pink Bull secure.
He began the season with Yuki Tsunoda earlier than the swap involving Liam Lawson.
Mekies will now have much more scrutiny on his place because the boss of such a high-profile group.
Moving into Horner’s footwear may also show a large problem.
Horner exits Pink Bull after 20 years in cost, together with two golden durations (for Sebastian Vettel then for Verstappen).
He was the longest-serving group principal till his departure.
