Christian Horner set for eye-watering multi-million Red Bull payout - report

Christian Horner is set to receive an eye-watering payout of €60 million (£52m; $70m) from Red Bull as part of his severance package, according to reports.

Horner was dismissed on July 9th after 20 years at the helm following a drastic slump in performance and the fracturing of the team after several high-profile departures, including Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley.

He was also placed under investigation by Red Bull GmbH after allegations of inappropriate behaviour were made against him in February 2024, which he has always denied.

Horner was removed from operational duties by Red Bull GmbH, standing down from Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Powertrains, whilst his lawyers negotiated his severance package with the company he joined in 2025.

Dutch publication de Telegraaf has reported that Horner's lawyers have agreed a package of €60 million, essentially the full amount due to Horner over the course of his long-term contract.

Crucially for his hopes of a return to F1, it is also reported by de Telegraaf that Horner could be free to sign with another team from summer 2026.

It is reported that a period of nine months from the time of dismissal has been agreed, meaning Horner would be free to work for another team from April 9th, 2026.

The official amount Horner will receive will be published in Red Bull Racing's official financial statements, published on Companies House, but will not be until 30 September 2026. 

Horner's official departure from Red Bull was then communicated by the team, after his departure from operational duties.