Verstappen unfazed by Horner’s Red Bull departure amid speculation on future

Max Verstappen Unmoved by Christian Horner’s Red Bull Exit

SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belgium — Max Verstappen has asserted that Christian Horner's shock dismissal from Red Bull will not influence his long-term future with the Formula One team. Horner, the former team principal, parted ways with Red Bull two weeks ago, sending ripples through the F1 paddock ahead of Sunday’s Belgian Grand Prix.

The decision to remove Horner, who had a turbulent relationship with Verstappen’s father, Jos, arrives amidst growing uncertainty over Verstappen’s own tenure at Red Bull. While the reigning four-time world champion is contracted with the team until 2028, Mercedes has reportedly expressed interest in securing his services before his deal expires.

Verstappen Quells Speculation

Asked if Horner’s departure could shift his outlook, Verstappen was quick to quell any speculation:

"No, it doesn't really," he said. "People can have a difference of opinion here and there, and I actually expect that to happen because if everyone always agrees, there is a problem. You need to have differences of opinion."

Despite expressing an eagerness to see how Red Bull adjusts its approach moving forward, Verstappen made clear that his focus remains firmly on performance.

"The only thing that matters is that we work on the car and make it as fast as we can," he added. "The last one and a half years have not been what we wanted. Now we try to be more competitive this year, especially with the new regulations."

Informed of Horner’s Departure

Verstappen said he was informed of Horner’s dismissal by Red Bull shareholders before it was made public.

"I have a good relationship with them," Verstappen explained. "So I think it's quite normal that they inform some people in the team before it goes out. I gave them my opinion, but I keep that to myself."

The Dutch driver also revealed he spoke with Horner after the news broke:

"It was great to speak to him. Time will tell [if it was correct to fire him]."

Praise for Horner’s Contributions

Reflecting on the unprecedented decision, Verstappen praised Horner’s contributions over the last two decades:

"Looking back at those 20 years of Red Bull, there were great moments and great results. There were also years where things didn’t go as well — like the last one and a half years. Management decided to steer the ship in a different direction, and I look forward to it."

Still, Verstappen emphasized the long-lasting bond he shares with Horner and the Red Bull team:

"The relationship between myself and Christian doesn’t change. Red Bull is still like a second family to me."

Verstappen’s Future in Focus

The pressure surrounding Verstappen’s future at Red Bull has only intensified amid recent on-track struggles. Over the past 18 months, the team has failed to replicate the dominance of prior seasons, prompting questions about Verstappen’s next move.

ESPN sources have confirmed that Verstappen’s contract includes an escape clause: if he ranks fourth or lower in the championship by August 3, following the Hungarian Grand Prix, he could opt to leave Red Bull early. However, the Dutch driver currently sits third in the standings, 18 points ahead of Mercedes' George Russell — the driver Verstappen might replace under certain scenarios.

If the clause is not activated, Mercedes would need to buy out Verstappen’s contract to sign him before 2026. Such a move would be costly, considering the $50 million per year he’s scheduled to earn under his current deal.

When asked whether there’s still a possibility he could leave Red Bull before 2026, Verstappen offered a lighthearted response:

"There is also a possibility I don’t wake up tomorrow, so then there’s no driving at all. Life is unpredictable. But in general, I’m very happy where I’m at. That was the target we set out when I signed the new deal — that I would drive here until the end of my career."

Sardinia Rumors Denied

Social media speculation over Verstappen’s future reached new heights last week after the Dutchman and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff were vacationing in close proximity on the island of Sardinia. Fans hypothesized that the two were discussing a potential partnership, but Verstappen dismissed the rumors outright.

"I was swimming in the ocean at the time," he said when asked about the Sardinia chatter. "I don’t really care about these things. I went on holiday with my friends and family. If other people are there at the same time, that can happen. There are more people on the island than just me and Toto."

For now, Verstappen remains committed to Red Bull, but the combination of Horner’s exit, underwhelming performances, and a looming escape clause could make the next chapter of his career one of Formula One’s most intriguing storylines.

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