Laurent Mekies, the boss of sister team Racing Bulls, will replace Horner, who has been with the team since its inception in 2005 and led it to 124 wins and numerous championships.

Red Bull’s Formula 1 team is changing team directors for the first time since it was founded 20 years ago, after Christian Horner's sacking sent shockwaves through the sport on Wednesday.

Horner is a key figure in one of the most dramatic and controversial title fights in history as Verstappen beats Lewis Hamilton to the championship.