Car Heroes: Sebastian Vettel Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-ORuBgjXeE&t=2048s&ab_channel=Current%26CombustionHosts: Jason Hassett & The Casual F1 FanBrought to you by: https://checkmythumbnail.com/🏎 Shockwaves in Milton Keynes: Horner Era EndsAfter 20 seasons, six Constructors’ titles, and eight Drivers’ crowns, Christian Horner has been dismissed as Red Bull Racing’s CEO and Team Principal with immediate effect. The team’s Austrian-Thai board informed him of the decision early this morning, citing poor 2025 results and escalating internal friction. Frenchman Laurent Mekies, formerly of Racing Bulls, steps in as the new boss, while long-serving sporting director Alan Permane moves up at Faenza to replace Mekies.💔 A “Heavy Heart” FarewellHorner addressed staff for the last time, calling the job “the biggest privilege of my life.” He departs a team sitting fourth in the standings—288 points adrift of McLaren and enduring its worst run since 2020.📸 Verstappen ReactsMax Verstappen posted an emotional Instagram message: “From my first win to four world titles… thank you for everything, Christian!” Insiders say the move is a gamble by Red Bull’s board to keep their star driver committed amid swirling transfer rumours.🔍 Why Now?Performance slide: Just 172 Constructors’ points after 12 rounds.Boardroom tension: Lingering fallout from Horner’s 2024 misconduct investigation eroded trust, despite him being twice cleared.Stakeholder pressure: Thai majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya reportedly pushed hardest for change.🛠 Mekies’ To-Do ListCalm the garage – reassure Verstappen and rebuild morale.Upgrade pipeline – fast-track Milton Keynes’ stalled aero package.2026 engine project – keep the Ford partnership on track.💬 Debate of the DayIs sacking Horner the bold reset Red Bull needs—or the first domino in a wider collapse?Will Verstappen stay loyal or see this as the exit cue?Can Mekies impose authority mid-season, or is a 2025 turnaround already out of reach?🎙 Plus on Today’s RundownWho might poach Horner? Early whispers link him to the Alpine rebuild or a senior Ferrari strategy role.Constructors’ battle reset: McLaren and Ferrari eye an opening while Red Bull regroups.Mailbag: Your questions!Hashtags:#ChristianHorner #RedBullRacing #LaurentMekies #MaxVerstappen #F12025 #F1Podcast #BlatantlyBiased #Formula1