New Purple Bull group principal and CEO Laurent Mekies says he feels honored by his promotion from Racing Bulls rather than Christian Horner, and that the group will obtain “nice outcomes” in future.
Horner was faraway from his place this week, with the 51-year-old having led Purple Bull all through its time as a Method 1 constructor, from its first race in 2005. An announcement mentioned Horner was “launched from his operational duties” and Purple Bull has turned to Mekies to interchange him in each roles.
The Frenchman steps up from the group principal position at Racing Bulls, and says he’s buying and selling one particular alternative for an additional.
“Over the past 12 months and a half it has been an absolute privilege to guide Visa Money App Racing Bulls and I wish to thank all of our gifted folks each in Faenza and Milton Keynes,” Mekies mentioned.
“Trying to the long run, I’m excited to be taking over the position of CEO and group principal of Oracle Purple Bull Racing, one of the profitable and dynamic groups within the sport. It’s an honor to be a part of this group of good those that embody the Purple Bull spirit.
“Collectively we’ll obtain nice outcomes, constructing on the unimaginable legacy left by Christian Horner throughout his twenty years in cost.”
Mekies has beforehand labored as deputy group principal at Ferrari in addition to deputy race director on the FIA, however Racing Bulls was his first group principal place and he believes the group is nicely arrange for future success.
“A really massive thanks from the underside of my coronary heart for the superb help we obtained from you on this final 12 months and a half of the journey with Visa Money App Racing Bulls,” he mentioned in a video message. “I don’t actually wish to really feel that I’m leaving – I keep within the household and go throughout the street – however extra importantly I do know the group might be in unbelievable arms with Peter, with Alan, with everybody else which have made this group particular.”
There have been additionally additional thanks for the outgoing Horner on social media, with Purple Bull carrying a brief remark from long-time advisor Helmut Marko.
“Christian and I’ve labored collectively very efficiently for over 20 years – each in Method 1 and in Method 3000,” Marko mentioned. “I wish to sincerely thank Christian for that. Throughout this time, we had been in a position to rejoice an unimaginable variety of excellent achievements. We helped developed two world drivers’ champions and several other grand prix winners. That has at all times been – and nonetheless is – the Purple Bull method.
“As for the present sporting state of affairs: there are nonetheless 12 races to go, and we’ll proceed to combat for the drivers’ championship so long as it’s mathematically potential.”
Max Verstappen additionally posted a message, including: “From my first race win, to 4 world championships, we now have shared unimaginable successes. Profitable memorable races and breaking numerous information. Thanks for all the pieces, Christian!”
