Dutch reporter Erik van Haren has shed light on the ongoing speculation regarding Max Verstappen Christian Horner influence in the recent dismissal of Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. According to van Haren, who is closely connected to Verstappen’s inner circle, the involvement of Verstappen’s camp—especially his father Jos Verstappen—in Horner’s firing
“can neither be underestimated nor overestimated.”
Van Haren, writing for De Telegraaf, clarified that despite persistent rumors, Verstappen has not yet signed with Mercedes, and any announcement concerning the reigning world champion‘s future is expected during the upcoming summer break. The complexities surrounding Verstappen’s future and Horner’s sacking remain closely watched within the Formula 1 community.
Unclear Influence of Jos Verstappen and Red Bull Management’s Role
The exact extent of Jos Verstappen’s involvement in the decision to remove Horner remains ambiguous. Van Haren emphasized that while Jos Verrstappen was a vocal critic of Horner, warning Red Bull’s management last year about potential negative consequences if Horner stayed, the decisive action is believed to have come primarily from Red Bull GmbH’s managing director Oliver Mintzlaff.
Van Haren explained,
“It is common knowledge that [Max’s] father Jos Verstappen was a great critic of Horner and warned early last year that Red Bull would fall apart if the team boss remained.”
He continued,
“However, his influence [in Horner’s firing] can neither be underestimated nor overestimated.”
Conflicting narratives have emerged, with some suggesting the Verstappen camp pushed for Horner’s removal, while others see it as a strategic gamble by Red Bull’s leadership to secure Verstappen’s loyalty in Milton Keynes. Van Haren affirmed that Mintzlaff led the management change, supported by Red Bull’s Austrian and Thai shareholders.
Dismissal of Claims Linking Horner’s Firing to Verstappen’s Retention
Van Haren also addressed circulating rumors that Horner’s firing guaranteed Verstappen would remain with Red Bull, labelling these stories as “nonsense.” Despite the upheaval, the team‘s executives reportedly remain deeply concerned about the possibility of Verstappen departing.
“Rumors of a handshake deal with Red Bull’s management – Horner out, so Verstappen will definitely stay – are being dismissed as nonsense by all parties,” wrote van Haren.
“Rather, the Red Bull leadership is still terrified that Verstappen will leave after all,” he added.
This uncertainty around Verstappen’s contract has ripple effects on the driver market, particularly for Mercedes racers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, both without confirmed deals for the 2026 season. Should Verstappen join Mercedes at Brackley, only one of these drivers may retain a seat with the Silver Arrows.
Ongoing Uncertainty Surrounding Team Dynamics and Future Contracts
The events surrounding the firing of Christian Horner highlight tension within Red Bull as they navigate the precarious balance of retaining their star driver amid leadership upheaval. Max Verstappen’s camp maintains a guarded stance on future moves, keeping options open as contract talks continue. Meanwhile, the impact on other drivers and the competitive landscape sheds light on how critical Verstappen’s decision will be for Formula 1 teams in the months ahead.
Red Bull’s handling of management changes alongside Verstappen’s future choices will likely influence team strategies and driver lineups for the 2026 season, making this a pivotal period in the sport’s ongoing evolution.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a billionaire?
A. Multiple sources state that Max Verstappen’s net worth is approximately $210 million.
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. Verstappen and Piquet have announced the birth of their baby girl, Lily. They initially revealed they were expecting before the 2024 final race in Abu Dhabi. Lily is now a younger sibling to Penelope, who is Piquet’s daughter.
Q. Is Max Verstappen’s child a boy?
A. In Miami, Max Verstappen shared the news that he and his partner, Kelly Piquet, have welcomed their first child. On Friday, the four-time world champion posted on Instagram, introducing their newborn daughter, Lily.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Kelly Piquet, Max Verstappen’s partner, is the daughter of former world champion Nelson Piquet. She has a daughter, Penelope, from a past relationship with Daniil Kvyat, an ex-F1 driver. Verstappen has built a strong bond with Penelope. He recently mentioned this close relationship when questioned if fatherhood could impact his performance in races.