Footage of Christian Horner's farewell speech emerges as former Red Bull principal left in tears after sacking

An emotional Christian Horner gave a tearful farewell speech to staff at Red Bull's UK base in Milton Keynes, just hours after the former team principal was sacked from his role at the Formula One team.

Horner, who helped Red Bull win six Constructors' Championship titles between 2010 and 2023, was informed of the surprise decision on Tuesday evening.

The 51-year-old was given the opportunity to address his former employers at their UK base in Milton Keynes on Wednesday morning – and he broke down in tears after admitting that the sacking came as a "shock", despite Red Bull's poor start to the campaign.

Sky Sports obtained footage of the farewell speech, with the clip showing Horner receiving a lengthy standing ovation from those present.

He said: "Yesterday, I was informed by Red Bull that operationally I would no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward. I will still remain employed by the company, but, operationally the baton will be handed over.

"It came as a shock to myself. I've had a chance to reflect over the last 12 hours and wanted to stand in front of all of you to break this news and to express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20-and-a-half years.

"When I arrived 20 years ago, there were a few less grey hairs. I walked into a team and did not know what to expect but I was immediately welcomed and we started to build what became a powerhouse in F1."

Horner addresses his former employers as he delivers emotional speech. Image credit: Sky Sports

Horner, who enjoyed 20 years of service at Red Bull, added: "Watching and being part of this team, has been the biggest privilege of my life."

A statement from Red Bull revealed on Wednesday that the 51-year-old will be replaced by Laurent Mekies, who was the team principal at sister team Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

Max Verstappen speaks on departure of Christian Horner

Verstappen broke his silence on Horner's departure, several hours after the news was announced publicly.

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday afternoon, Verstappen wrote: "From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"

In the past, Horner's position has been questioned but Verstappen – who is widely regarded as the best driver on the current grid – has often stood by the now-former team principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing.

Speaking about Horner back in March 2024, Verstappen said: "When I look at how Christian operates within the team he has been an incredible boss so from the performance kind of things you can’t question that.

"I speak to Christian a lot and he is fully committed to the team. He is here for the performance, and of course he is a little bit distracted, but we just focus on performance and that is how we all work together."

Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff also paid tribute to Horner after the sacking.

He said: "We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years. With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1."

Mintzlaff added: "Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history."