Former Red Bull chief Wheatley: 'No one can take that away from Horner'

During the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, Wheatley was asked by Sky Sports about recent changes at his former team, where Horner was dismissed immediately after Silverstone and replaced by Laurent Mekies, while Alan Permane was promoted to team principal at Racing Bulls.

“If I look back on it, I had a tremendous 19-year period there,” Wheatley said. “Look at what Christian achieved in his leadership there. It’s extraordinary. Nobody can take anything away from from that. What we achieved as a team was extraordinary.''

In addition to Horner, Max Verstappen was also discussed. The Dutchman made it clear in Budapest that he will stay with Red Bull until 2026, thereby quashing rumors of a move to Mercedes: “Max’s journey, I’ve loved watching every single second of it. And I’m glad for him that he feels comfortable and engaged moving forwards.''

The Brit also emphasizes that he is happy for two former colleagues who have been promoted due to the changes: “Alan Permane, we’ve known each other for 34 years or something, since my first year in Formula 1. Now team principal at Racing Bulls. And, of course, Laurent’s opportunity to CEO and team principal at Red Bull.”

Wheatley had been with Red Bull since 2006 and witnessed all fourteen of the team’s world titles. After nineteen years, he left to become team principal of Sauber, which will transform into Audi’s factory team next year.