Christian Horner replacement sends message to Red Bull staff on first day
Laurent Mekies has left Red Bull staff in no doubt that he is up for the challenge after replacing Christian Horner as boss. The reigning F1 constructor champions announced the bombshell news that their long-serving CEO would be leaving with immediate effect earlier this week.
It was confirmed that he had been dismissed just days after the British GP. Red Bull then announced his replacement as former Racing Bulls Team Principal Mekies.
And the Frenchman got the opportunity to address Red Bull staff at Silverstone as part of a pre-arranged filming day with the RB21. Speaking in a speech, Mekies said: 'I look at this team as most outside look at them, we see the very best people in the world at what they do,' Mekies said during that first outing with the team.
'That's what this team is, even from being a competitor previously you look at Red Bull Racing as being the sharpest team, having managed to accumulate the best talent to work together.
'It is a privilege to join the team, and the focus will be on making sure all the talented people here have what they need to perform at their best, because they are already the very best.
'We will be focussing on that and making sure the Red Bull energy is flowing through the team. We are not underestimating the challenge ahead; we will need everybody and we will go about it together, and I am sure with everyone's contributions we will tackle this challenge.'
Mekies' address to Red Bull staff came amid a similar message from the outgoing Horner who expressed his shock at his axe in an emotional speech. He said: "Yesterday, I was informed by Red Bull that operationally I would no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward. I will still remain employed by the company, but, operationally the baton will be handed over.
"It came as a shock to myself. I've had a chance to reflect over the last 12 hours and wanted to stand in front of all of you to break this news and to express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20-and-a-half years.
Will Red Bull suffer from Horner's depature?
"When I arrived 20 years ago, there were a few less grey hairs. I walked into a team and did not know what to expect but I was immediately welcomed and we started to build what became a powerhouse in F1. Watching and being part of this team, has been the biggest privilege of my life."
Mekies' debut as Red Bull CEO will come at the Belgian GP later this month.
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