Christian Horner, Red Bull Team Principal, has expressed confidence in Max Verstappen’s desire to finish his career with the team, dismissing ongoing speculation linking the Dutch driver to a potential move to Mercedes.
During a recent media day, Verstappen remained tight-lipped about his future, stating simply, “I have nothing to add.”
In response to similar inquiries, Horner provided insights into Verstappen’s long-standing association with Red Bull and the loyalty he has cultivated over the years.
“There’s obviously an awful lot of people talking about it, but what’s most important is the relationship between the driver and the team, and obviously there’s an agreement that defines that as well,” Horner said.
Highlighting Verstappen’s journey with Red Bull, Horner remarked, “Max has been with Red Bull since the very start of his career, all of his success has come in Red Bull Racing cars, and he’s been a big part of our team and he has a great deal of faith in the team and the people around him.”
He emphasized the importance of internal clarity amidst external chatter, asserting, “While there’s always going to be speculation and noise, I think we all sit fairly comfortable with where we’re at and what the situation is.”
When asked about potential plans should Verstappen choose to leave, Horner quipped cheerfully, referencing McLaren’s current driver, “Oscar Piastri! It’s all as subjective as that.
We’re very focused on our current drivers and the relationship; Max has got a contract until 2028.”
Horner further added, “He’s made it quite clear that he would like to finish his career in a Red Bull car, from start to finish – I think that’s quite special and unique for him.
That’s what we’re focused on, just ignoring the noise and focusing on the areas where we know we need to improve and how to do that.”
Speculation regarding Verstappen’s future has intensified amidst uncertainty regarding George Russell’s contract with Mercedes.
Horner suggested this uncertainty may have amplified discussions around Verstappen, stating, “The contracts between the drivers and the teams are always going to remain confidential, and with any driver’s contract there is always an element of a performance mechanism and of course that exists within Max’s contract.”
He affirmed Verstappen’s intentions, noting, “His intention is that he will be there driving for us in 2026.
It’s inevitable that he’s of huge interest to any other team in the pit lane, and I think actually George probably triggered all of this speculation, probably trying to leverage his own situation and force clarity, which you can understand because he’s driven a very good season as well this year.”
Addressing the possibility of Russell joining Red Bull if Verstappen were to depart, Horner stated, “It’s remarkable that George is still on the market. We haven’t engaged in any discussion with George, so he’s obviously pretty confident that he’s going to get to retain where he is.”
He also emphasized Red Bull’s depth and future potential, saying, “We’ve got strength and depth within our team; you can see the Racing Bulls drivers, you can see [Arvid] Lindblad that we’re running today.”
Referring to the significant regulatory changes expected in 2026, Horner pointed out the potential uncertainties within the sport, stating, “2026 is going to be a transformational year, the biggest rule change in Formula 1 probably in the last 50 years with both chassis and power unit changes being introduced at the same time.”
He acknowledged the unpredictability of the future competitive landscape, stating, “Nobody with hand on heart can know what the pecking order is going to be – it could be either one of these gentlemen sat next to me, it could be Ferrari, it could be Mercedes, it could be anyone.”
As speculation continues, Horner’s remarks reaffirm Verstappen’s dedication to Red Bull while underscoring the ever-changing dynamics of Formula 1.
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