By Ben Crawford,Tom Victor
Copyright dailystar
Christian Horner’s already hefty net worth is poised for a substantial increase amid claims the Formula 1 mainstay is set to pocket over £80million from Red Bull following his sacking. As the team principal of the F1 team, Horner oversaw eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles for Red Bull across two decades. The 51-year-old was given his marching orders in July and replaced as team boss at Red Bull by Laurent Mekies. Horner stayed on the books until a settlement was agreed upon: in August, a filing confirmed his departure as director of all three UK-registered companies linked with the team. Now, it’s reported that Horner and his former employers have settled on a compensation package that will significantly bolster his already considerable fortune, which he shares with his wife, ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell . The Times reports that Horner will receive over £80m for having his contract – which was originally set to run until 2030 – terminated early. He’s also expected to take a period of gardening leave before potentially joining another F1 team, with indications that he could take over at a rival from the middle of next season if an offer comes his way. Horner was just 31 when he joined Red Bull in 2005 as team principal, making him the youngest in the circuit’s history. A decade later, he tied the knot with singer, songwriter and Spice Girls star Halliwell. During his stint in Milton Keynes, Horner was understood to pocket an annual salary of nearly £8m, and when combined with his 52 year old pop icon partner’s income, their joint fortune totals a staggering £440m. The lion’s share of this vast wealth stems from Halliwell’s string of hit singles and varied screen appearances, with the Spice Girls alone boasting several number ones. She has also dabbled in writing books for children. Horner’s individual riches are reportedly worth £36m on their own, though this is theoretically set to increase following his agreed payout and his deal being cut short – regardless of whether he secures another hefty contract elsewhere in F1. When Horner’s exit was announced in July, after poor track performances and backstage controversies, he shared a heartfelt post on Instagram. He wrote: “After an incredible journey of twenty years together, it is with a heavy heart that today I say goodbye to the team I have absolutely loved. “Every one of you, the amazing people at the factory, have been the heart and soul of everything that we have achieved. Win and lose, every step of the way, we have stood by each other as one and I will never forget that. “It’s been a privilege being part of and leading this epic team and I am so proud of our collective accomplishments and you all. “Thanks to the amazing partners and fans who enabled us to go racing. Your support has helped grow the team from its humble beginnings to an F1 powerhouse that laid claim to 6 Constructors Championships and 8 Drivers Championships.”