Christian Horner sacked mid-season by F1 team Red Bull

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been sacked.

The 51-year-old, who has been with Red Bull since 2005, is the longest-serving team principal in F1, with his exit coming a year on from being accused of controlling behaviour by a female member of staff at the team. Horner, who is married to former Spice Girl Geri, has always denied the allegations against him.

Laurent Mekies has now been appointed as CEO of Red Bull Racing, the team announced. In a statement, Red Bull 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." Horner has faced a difficult 18 months on and off the track.

Allegations of inappropriate behaviour made against him in February 2024 by a female colleague were dismissed following an appeal last summer. Horner denied the accusations throughout.

Read more from Sky News:Jury-free trials proposed to prevent 'total system collapse' of UK courtsFather says daughter is 'our hero' as he tells how she survived Southport attack Under Horner's leadership, Red Bull achieved: 8 Drivers World Championships6 Constructors Championships124 Wins107 Pole Positions287 Podium Finishes In March last year and as he faced scrutiny over the allegations of inappropriate behaviour, Horner said the "intrusion on my family is now enough" and "has been very trying". The former Formula 1 team boss said it was time to "look forward and to draw a line" under the allegations.

Red Bull has seen several high-profile figures leave over the past 18 months, including legendary designer Adrian Newey to Aston Martin and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley to Sauber..