Red Bull to 'terminate' F1 driver's contract in major shakeup following Christian Horner exit

Red Bull will reportedly terminate a driver's contract in another major shakeup after Christian Horner's shock departure.

Last week, the world of Formula 1 was stunned by the news that Horner had been sacked by Red Bull.

The 51-year-old had held the position of team principal and CEO but was swiftly replaced by Laurent Mekies, who was promoted from Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

At the time, Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff 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. Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history."

Just over a week after Horner's exit, it has been claimed that another departure could be on the horizon.

As reported by GPblog, via the Daily Star, Red Bull have already decided to terminate Yuki Tsunoda's contract at the end of the 2025 season.

Tsunoda was promoted to partner Max Verstappen from Racing Bulls just two races into the current campaign.

The Japanese driver replaced Liam Lawson, who was demoted back to Racing Bulls, where he first impressed the F1 paddock.

However, Tsunoda has struggled since taking over from Lawson, as he continues to be a long way off four-time world champion Verstappen.

Currently, he sits 17th in the F1 standings with 10 points, two behind Lawson, who is in 16th place.

Yuki Tsunoda could reportedly been axed by Red Bull. Image: Getty

Looking ahead, Lawson will again be in the running to replace Tsunoda, along with Isack Hadjar and young star Arvid Lindblad.

Lindblad, 17, was recently granted a superlicense and made his F1 debut at the British Grand Prix, taking part in Free Practice One at Silverstone.

F1 will return at the end of July with the Belgian Grand Prix, taking place around the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps.