F1 expert claims to know what ultimately pushed Horner out of Red Bull's door

10:31, 10 Jul

Co-author:Tobia Elia

byTim Kraaij

Christian Horner’s dismissal is the hot topic of the day, including on the show In the Slipstream with Dutch journalist Allard Kalff and former engineer Kees van de Grint. The latter believes he knows what gave the final push.

Christian Horner was abruptly sacked as team principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing. On Tuesday, he received a call from Red Bull’s top management, and just a day later, the news made headlines around the world. According to van de Grint, Horner himself played a part in losing the trust that ultimately led to his exit.

‘’His flirting with other teams, that made some people think 'is that guy still so loyal?' That definitely did not do his position any good,’’ said the former Bridgestone tire expert.

Van de Grint points to Horner’s alleged flirtations with both Alpine and Ferrari. Horner was reportedly exploring a potential role at Alpine as CEO and team principal alongside Flavio Briatore, while also fueling speculation that Ferrari was eyeing him as a possible successor to Frédéric Vasseur.

Christian Horner

Was Mekies already aware of Horner's dismissal?

Kalff and Van de Grint talk about 'panic football' at Red Bull Racing, by parting ways with the team boss in the middle of the season. The replacement was immediately ready in the form of Laurent Mekies, but Van de Grint has his reservations about that.

‘’Football is not the most ethical world when it comes to working conditions with coaches, but at least they have a union that says it must be settled with the former coach before the new one comes.’’

‘’I also have my doubts about Mekies. If Horner really heard that last night (Tuesday night), then I don't think that's a neat way to do it. Whatever you think of the man. And then an hour later the new one is already appointed. Well, I would have called (if I were Mekies).’’