After more than 20 years at the helm of Red Bull Racing, Christian Horner is finally taking a well-earned break.
The Formula One team principal, who has guided his drivers to eight drivers’ and six constructors’ championships, is heading to Scotland for what he and wife Geri Halliwell are calling a “honeymoon,” a decade after their wedding in Woburn, Bedfordshire.
This first trip to the Isle of Skye promises a mix of relaxation and adventure, and Horner is reportedly some £80 million better off after finalising his exit from Red Bull.
A Career Spent in the Fast Lane
Horner’s departure from Red Bull was not a simple goodbye.
Negotiations over his severance package took weeks, ensuring he could leave with the freedom to return to Formula One within nine months.
While his contract theoretically entitled him to a payout of £110 million, Horner chose a smaller sum to keep his options open, prioritising the chance to return to the sport he loves over cash alone.
During his tenure, he managed teams led by Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, each winning multiple world championships.
Despite stepping down, Horner remains closely connected to the paddock, keeping in touch with friends and colleagues across the sport while watching from the sidelines.
Missing iconic races such as the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he had spent decades plotting strategies and celebrating victories, has been particularly tough.
Weighing His Next Move
Although currently on a break, Horner is already exploring his next move in motorsport.
Options include joining Formula One teams like Haas or Alpine, with Flavio Briatore potentially playing a role in the latter.
Even Bernie Ecclestone has suggested he might consider MotoGP, running the championship and bringing his F1 expertise to two wheels.
For now, Horner is carefully considering his path, determined not to rush a decision that could impact his long-term legacy.
A Supportive Partnership
Geri Halliwell, known to fans as Ginger Spice, has been a rock throughout this period.
Their marriage has withstood the pressures of Horner’s high-profile career and recent controversies, with Geri providing unwavering support.
Their son Monty, now eight, is also at the heart of their lives. Friends close to Horner note that while he enjoys this temporary downtime, he is a workaholic at heart and will return to motorsport with renewed energy.
Red Bull Racing Moves Forward
Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing has continued to thrive under the guidance of Laurent Mekies, the French engineer Horner helped bring into the team.
Verstappen’s recent wins in Monza and Baku highlight the strength of the foundations Horner put in place, even if he is no longer actively running the team.
Horner watches with pride as the team he built continues to succeed, knowing his influence remains a part of every victory.
Looking Ahead with a Smile
As Horner and Geri explore Skye, they can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and a rare chance to slow down.
And when Verstappen races for his fifth title this year, the couple might allow themselves a wry smile from afar, knowing Horner’s legacy helped pave the way for continued triumphs in the sport he loves.