Horner Considers a Future Without Verstappen at Red Bull
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s boss, has acknowledged that the team must mentally prepare for a future without Max Verstappen, whether it be next year or later in this decade. Speculation about Verstappen’s future has dominated the Formula 1 world for weeks.
Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes, has expressed his interest in signing the Dutch driver, who has a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave next year if he is not among the top three in the championship by the time the summer break arrives in August. Currently, Verstappen is in third place, only nine points ahead of George Russell, a Mercedes driver, whose contract extension talks are on hold.
“Max is a key piece of our team, and has been for almost 10 years. The intention is for this to continue,” said Horner. “But one day, whether it’s within a year or the next, the moment will come when there is no more Max [at Red Bull]”.
Christian Horner
Horner also highlighted the importance of investing in the future and in young talent, as demonstrated by the opportunity given to Arvid Lindblad.Description: Max Verstappen has spent his entire career with Red Bull, starting in the junior team, Toro Rosso, in 2015 at the age of 17, becoming the youngest driver in the history of the sport, and moving to Red Bull Racing the following year.
Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends until the end of 2028, but the driver has avoided categorically confirming his permanence in the team next year.
When asked if Russell could be a plan B for Red Bull in case Verstappen left, Horner responded by highlighting the team’s strength and depth.
The 2026 regulation change, which will affect both aerodynamics and engines, adds uncertainty to Verstappen’s situation. Red Bull will end its partnership with Honda and begin building engines at its Milton Keynes factory.Description: George Russell and Max Verstappen talk about their futures in Formula 1.
Horner admitted that there are similarities with Sebastian Vettel’s departure in 2015, but emphasized Red Bull’s confidence in its new project.
Horner emphasized the importance of investment and culture within the team. “I think there’s a lot at stake. What’s great is having it all under one roof, with the chassis engineers sitting alongside the power unit engineers. That shouldn’t be underestimated,” he concluded.
