Why Christian Horner will 'remain employed' at Red Bull

In front of an audience of Red Bull staff at the Milton Keynes factory earlier this week, Christian Horner bid an emotional farewell to the team.

During his final message, Horner said: “I will still remain employed by the company, but operationally, the baton will be handed over.”

Laurent Mekies has since been confirmed as the Briton's replacement at Red Bull, with the Frenchman stepping up following 18 months in charge at the Racing Bulls squad.

But the Horner line regarding his continued links with Red Bull sparked questions over the 51-year-old's position within the team - while he is no longer its day-to-day leader, could he go back to work in another role?

The answer is no - Horner's services are no longer needed at Red Bull as the team is looking to a new direction going forward.

But on paper, Horner has been put on paid leave. He still had several years left on his contract prior to his dismissal, creating a trivial situation for Red Bull.

Horner's exit has additional complications given the huge success he oversaw as team principal. Eight drivers' titles, six constructors' championships and 124 grand prix wins position him as one of the most successful team bosses of all time.

As he is the highest-paid team member aside from Max Verstappen, a basic handshake and severance pay will not suffice.

The core issue at the heart of those talks will be the terms of Horner's exit and the likely substantial sum that will need to be paid to cancel his contract.

Horner could also put his own demands on the table, should he so desire. Hypothetically, this could include shortening the length of his gardening leave, allowing him to make a swift transfer to another team.

Until those terms are negotiated, Horner will remain on the payroll and thus likely continue to be paid according to his contract.