New Crimson Bull group principal and CEO Laurent Mekies says he feels honored by his promotion from Racing Bulls instead of Christian Horner, and that the group will obtain “nice outcomes” in future.
Horner was faraway from his place this week, with the 51-year-old having led Crimson Bull all through its time as a Method 1 constructor, from its first race in 2005. A press release stated Horner was “launched from his operational duties” and Crimson Bull has turned to Mekies to exchange him in each roles.
The Frenchman steps up from the group principal function at Racing Bulls, and says he’s buying and selling one particular alternative for an additional.
“During the last yr and a half it has been an absolute privilege to steer Visa Money App Racing Bulls and I wish to thank all of our gifted folks each in Faenza and Milton Keynes,” Mekies stated.
“Seeking to the longer term, I’m excited to be taking over the function of CEO and group principal of Oracle Crimson Bull Racing, one of the profitable and dynamic groups within the sport. It’s an honor to be a part of this group of good those who embody the Crimson Bull spirit.
“Collectively we are going to obtain nice outcomes, constructing on the unbelievable legacy left by Christian Horner throughout his 20 years in cost.”
Mekies has beforehand labored as deputy group principal at Ferrari in addition to deputy race director on the FIA, however Racing Bulls was his first group principal place and he believes the group is effectively arrange for future success.
“A really huge thanks from the underside of my coronary heart for the superb help we acquired from you on this final yr and a half of the journey with Visa Money App Racing Bulls,” he stated in a video message. “I don’t actually wish to really feel that I’m leaving – I keep within the household and go throughout the street – however extra importantly I do know the group will probably be in improbable fingers with Peter, with Alan, with everybody else which have made this group particular.”
There have been additionally additional thanks for the outgoing Horner on social media, with Crimson Bull carrying a brief remark from long-time advisor Helmut Marko.
“Christian and I’ve labored collectively very efficiently for over 20 years – each in Method 1 and in Method 3000,” Marko stated. “I wish to sincerely thank Christian for that. Throughout this time, we had been capable of have a good time an unbelievable variety of excellent achievements. We helped developed two world drivers’ champions and a number of other grand prix winners. That has all the time been – and nonetheless is – the Crimson Bull method.
“As for the present sporting state of affairs: there are nonetheless 12 races to go, and we are going to proceed to struggle for the drivers’ championship so long as it’s mathematically attainable.”
Max Verstappen additionally posted a message, including: “From my first race win, to 4 world championships, now we have shared unbelievable successes. Successful memorable races and breaking numerous data. Thanks for every thing, Christian!”