Speaking to media including PlanetF1.com ahead of what proved to be his final race in charge of Red Bull at the British Grand Prix, Horner conceded that it would be “embarrassing” for Mercedes or “any manufacturer” if RBPT-Ford produce a better engine at the first time of asking in F1 2026.

By sacking Christian Horner, Red Bull has made a big change to try to return to F1 winning ways. But there are other steps it must take, too