Formula One world champion Max Verstappen paid tribute to Christian Horner following Red Bull's decision to fire the long-serving team principal.

Horner was relieved of his duties on Wednesday.

He had been in charge of Red Bull since their first foray into F1 in 2005. Under his leadership, the team won six constructors' titles and eight drivers' championships.

Four of those drivers' championships were won by Verstappen, who has triumphed for the past four seasons, though the Dutchman sits third behind McLaren duo Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as it stands.

And with Red Bull fourth in the constructor standings, the team have elected to make a change.

20 years, 14 titles

An incredibly successful partnership comes to an end#F1 @redbullracing pic.twitter.com/av6BkXMjRQ

— Formula 1 (@F1) July 9, 2025

Verstappen posted on social media to thank Horner for their time working together. 

"From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes," Verstappen wrote.

"Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"

Horner's dismissal comes amid uncertainty over Verstappen's future, with George Russell having recently claimed Mercedes were attempting to sign the superstar driver.

Laurent Mekies has succeeded Horner at Red Bull.