Max Verstappen has made it clear: Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull won’t impact his decision to stay or leave.
Speaking publicly for the first time since Horner was dismissed, the four-time world champion insisted the change holds no sway over his future with the team.
When asked if this impacts his career decisions, Verstappen didn’t hesitate: “No, it doesn’t, really… I don’t think it will matter at all for my decision in the future. The last one and a half years have not been where we want to be. Now we try and be more competitive.”
Verstappen said he was notified of Horner’s exit only “half a day” before it became public, while confirming the move was driven by Red Bull GmbH in Austria following internal power struggles.
Reports suggest Max’s father, Jos Verstappen, played a behind-the-scenes role. He publicly criticised Horner earlier this year and warning the team would “explode” if he stayed.
Still, Max emphasised respect: “The relationship between myself and Christian ... doesn’t change. He’s still like a second family to me.”
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Red Bull has replaced Horner with Laurent Mekies, head of sister team Racing Bulls, whose first media appearance is set for Friday (July 25).
Despite rumours linking him to Mercedes, Verstappen reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull. He is contracted through 2028 with exit clauses, but remains firmly grounded for now.
He made it simple: “The only thing that matters is that we work on the car and make it as fast as we can make it.”
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