From Motorsport · Rahaan Mazumder · · 1m 10s
Christian Horner reveals panic attacks during F1 career
Christian Horner admits panic attacks from F1 stress, credits doctors for recognizing symptoms.
In brief
Christian Horner admits panic attacks from F1 stress, credits doctors for recognizing symptoms. Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing team principal, says panic attacks from F1 stress were misdiagnosed as fatigue until doctors identified shallow breathing and anxiety. Originally reported by Motorsport.
Christian Horner's panic attacks
Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing team principal, says panic attacks from F1 stress were misdiagnosed as fatigue until doctors identified shallow breathing and anxiety.
“I didn't know what it was. You suddenly feel dizzy and conscious of your breathing, and you think there's something strange going on.”
Misdiagnosed as too much coffee
Horner initially blamed panic attacks on excessive caffeine intake during oppressive weather conditions.
“I put it down to having had too much coffee on an oppressive, muggy, thundery day.”
Doctors identified anxiety
Medical evaluation confirmed Horner's panic attacks stemmed from psychological overload, not physical illness.
“They said, 'We think you have anxiety. Your breathing's very shallow.'”
Identity crisis after Red Bull exit
Horner experienced an identity vacuum following his unexpected departure from Red Bull in July 2025.
“The identity of many middle-aged guys is through their work. Suddenly you have that stripped and taken from you.”
Toto Wolff's influence
Horner praised Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff for openly discussing his own history with clinical depression and therapy.
“Toto was very brave to talk openly about such a factor for people our age.”
Life off the race circuit
Horner found renewed personal time after stepping away from F1, celebrating his daughter's birthday in London.
“I don't miss the travel and politics. I still love the sport.”
What matters most
Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing team principal, says panic attacks from F1 stress were misdiagnosed as fatigue until doctors identified shallow breathing and anxiety.
