Speaking at a planned filming day with the 2025 car at Silverstone on his first day on the job, Mekies paid tribute to his predecessor and admitted it felt odd to be at Red Bull without Horner there.

A former F1 world champion has taken to social media to express his doubts over the future of Red Bull in the wake of a turbulent week for the team. Christian Horner was sensationally relieved of his duties as team principal on Wednesday, with former Racing Bulls boss Laurent Mekies stepping into the position with immediate effect.

Christian Horner’s sacking from Red Bull sent shockwaves through Formula 1. But his replacement Laurent Mekies could be the calm presence the team needs amid what promises to be an intense period of scrutiny.