Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen expressed his gratitude and emotional farewell to Christian Horner following Horner’s unexpected dismissal as Red Bull Racing’s team principal on Wednesday. Verstappen’s tribute acknowledged their shared journey, highlighting a partnership that began in 2016 and produced four consecutive world championships.
This dramatic development comes amid a challenging 2025 season for Verstappen, who currently sits third in the drivers‘ standings with 165 points while competing in a slower car compared to the dominant McLaren. This year’s difficulties are compounded by the minimal points contribution from teammates Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, who have combined for just five points so far. Horner’s sacking shocked the F1 community, as he had been a key figure in Verstappen’s successes alongside aerodynamicist Adrian Newey, now with Aston Martin, and Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley, currently at Sauber.
Max Verstappen Reflects on Shared Victories and Records
<pUpon the announcement, Verstappen publicly acknowledged Horner on Instagram, thanking him for the memories and milestones they achieved together. Their collaboration began when Verstappen replaced Daniil Kvyat ahead of the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix, propelling the young driver to multiple remarkable achievements.
From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!
—Max Verstappen
Despite this public tribute, Verstappen’s relationship with Horner had reportedly been strained. Reports indicate dissatisfaction within the team over Horner’s leadership, particularly voiced by Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, adding tension behind the scenes.
Speculation Surrounds Horner’s Departure and Future Possibilities
The reasons for Horner’s removal remain undisclosed, fueling widespread speculation. F1 analyst Martin Brundle pointed out that Horner was not provided with an official explanation, intensifying questions about the decision. Some in the racing community now speculate that Horner, amid a struggling season and entering a new competitive era in 2026, might be considered by other top teams like Ferrari.
For Verstappen, Horner’s exit may decisively end rumors linking him to Mercedes, signaling a potential shift in the Formula 1 landscape. The unexpected change marks a pivotal moment for Red Bull Racing as they adjust their leadership during a turbulent season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s baby daughter?
A. Max Verstappen has become a father! The 27-year-old Formula One driver celebrated the birth of his daughter, Lily, with partner Kelly Piquet. They shared the joyful news together on Instagram.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. “She’s incredible.” In 2025, Penelope became an older sister when Piquet and Verstappen had their first child, Lily. Learn more about Penelope, Kelly Piquet’s daughter, from her interests to her close relationship with Max Verstappen.
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s closest friend?
A. They’re just friends, nothing beyond that. Carlos is still his closest and most trusted companion. On the track, they’re not friends—just competitors.