Horner: an energy drink company taking on major car brands, but why the F___ Not?

In an Interview with i Red Bull's Christian Horner discusses his leadership style, search for the next Max and taking on major car brands.

As the man at the helm for 20 seasons, Horner's leadership has enabled Red Bull to secure six drivers' championships and five constructors' titles.

While Horner recognizes that the team can be perceived as "the bad guys," he believes that having a British driver could change that perception.

Horner's success as a team principal is attributed to his soft power approach and enlightened leadership.

He believes that getting the right people in the right roles and creating the right atmosphere is critical to success.

"If you look after people and they feel comfortable in the environment they are in, they will show you loyalty," Horner tells.

Horner's first job was to ease Guenther Steiner out of the door in favor of Adrian Newey's quiet genius.

He recognized the team needed technical leadership and direction. Like Pep Guardiola, Horner brought an approach and vision that enabled more talented individuals to flourish.

The Secret to Red Bull's Success

Horner's contribution to Red Bull goes beyond Formula One. He takes pride in his contribution to the local community and wonders why Red Bull doesn't connect with a British audience.

"It would be different if we had a British driver like a certain team in Brackley. We are too easily seen as the bad guys."

The 2023 Season and the search for the next Max

Despite the obvious dominance of Red Bull's 2023 car, Horner does not believe the season is over.

He acknowledges the ever-present danger of the random variable and how the competition is always scheming to slow them down.

Horner also dismisses the discord theory over Max Verstappen's fastest lap in Saudi Arabia and offers a perspective on Sergio Perez.

"Checo was on the ropes careerwise. We did a deal that gave him a second wind, and he has now won four grands prix and numerous podiums."

"The biggest challenge for Checo is sustaining that over 23 events because that is where Max has become so strong over the last few years with the relentless consistency that he has."

Asked if he is already on the lookout for the next Max, Horner replied: "There isn't another Max. If you look back at 2021 at the pressure he had at certain points, he drove some incredible races."

Formula 1, "The Kardashians on Wheels"

Horner understands the often-inflammatory reaction surrounding Formula 1.

“My wife has always said to me a pat on the back is only six inches from a kick up the arse."

"This is like the Kardashians on wheels. As long as you are comfortable with the decisions you are taking. That’s how I live my life.”

Why the f___ not?

Horner's determination to take on the giants of Formula 1 is unwavering. He sees no reason why Red Bull, an energy drink company, cannot compete with the likes of Mercedes Benz, Ferrari, and Audi.

"Why the f___ not? If we have the right people, the right resources, the right culture, why can't we do it?" he asks.

This determination has propelled Red Bull to the top of the sport, with six drivers' championships and five constructors' titles to their name.

Horner believes that the key to their success is not just in the hard science upon which Formula One is predicated or the riches paying for it, but in the soft power of enlightened leadership.