Hamilton: Horner built a remarkable team, I wish him all the best

Horner had run Red Bull from 2005, two years before seven-time F1 world champion Hamilton made his debut with McLaren, until this month.

During that time Red Bull became serial F1 title winners, with Hamilton among the main contenders battling to beat them.

Hamilton told reporters ahead of the weekend's Belgian Grand Prix - his 369th race and first without Horner being around - that while the Briton's departure would not change anything in his life, it had been incredible to witness Red Bull's progress.

He recalled sitting in Horner's office while still competing in Formula 3 and looking into his future options in F2 and beyond: "I wouldn't say we hit it off from the get-go.

"To see his progression and his career, I think it was clearly remarkable what he did with the team. With a huge group of amazing people. To really run an organisation that big and that well takes talent and skill.

"That's what he brought to the team. I wish him all the best," said 40-year-old Hamilton.