Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen‘s Red Bull future appears more secure after Christian Horner’s unexpected departure as team principal and CEO on July 9. Former driver and Sky Sports F1 analyst Martin Brundle believes this management shift increases the likelihood that Verstappen will continue his career with Red Bull rather than moving to a rival team.

Christian Horner’s Sudden Departure from Red Bull

Christian Horner was replaced immediately by Laurent Mekies, the team chief of Racing Bulls, without an official explanation. His exit occurred amid a difficult performance period for Red Bull and a public dispute involving Horner and Verstappen’s father, Jos. The circumstances surrounding Horner’s removal hint at internal tensions within the team.

Speculation Over Verstappen’s Potential Move to Mercedes

Before Horner’s exit, Max Verstappen was linked with a possible transfer to Mercedes. Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ team principal, confirmed talks had taken place with Verstappen but indicated that the chances of him joining the team in 2026 were low, though not impossible in the longer term. This uncertainty left Verstappen’s future up in the air during a competitive transitional phase for Red Bull.

Brundle’s Perspective on Verstappen’s Commitment to Red Bull

Following the leadership change, Brundle suggested that the strained relationship between the Verstappens and Horner may have influenced the outcome, and that Verstappen is now more inclined to remain with Red Bull. He told Sky Sports News,

“It perhaps makes it more likely that the Verstappens [Jos and Max] will stay there. I think it became quite personal,”

underscoring the personal dynamics affecting the team environment.

Brundle pointed out that everything Verstappen has achieved, including every podium and victory, has come in a Red Bull car. Verstappen has frequently expressed his desire to complete his racing career with the team, especially as Red Bull prepares to debut its own engine next season. This represents a major change in Formula 1, combining a new chassis and power unit simultaneously.

Red Bull’s Upcoming Engine Launch and Verstappen’s Contract Clause

Red Bull’s upcoming engine debut is a significant factor for Verstappen’s future with the team. Horner had overseen this critical development, and Verstappen holds an exit clause tied to his position in the current World Championship standings at the end of July. Brundle commented,

“Does this mean he’s more likely to go or stay? I can only surmise it means he’s more likely to stay at the team.”

Reflecting on Horner’s Tenure and Team Challenges

Brundle noted that Horner’s departure was not entirely unexpected given the recent issues Red Bull has faced. He expressed sadness at losing Horner, whom he considers a friend and praises for his two decades of leadership. Horner transformed the team from its Stewart and Jaguar origins and built it into a successful operation based in Milton Keynes, accumulating numerous race wins and World Championships.

Brundle added,

“It’s not too difficult to feel in the F1 paddock and to observe and hear that things were not particularly rosy.”

This remark highlighted the tension inside the paddock and the complexity behind the scenes at Red Bull.

Implications for Red Bull and Verstappen’s Career Path

With Horner gone and Mekies stepping into the team principal role, Red Bull faces the challenge of maintaining its competitive edge during a significant technical transition. Verstappen’s decision to stay could provide stability for the team at a critical time as they introduce their own power unit, a change that could redefine the sport’s competitive landscape.

The leadership change may also signal a reset in team relations, potentially allowing Verstappen and his family to renew their confidence in Red Bull’s future. As the season advances, Verstappen’s choice will have profound implications for both his career and Red Bull’s aspirations in Formula 1.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?

A. According to Celebrity Net Worth as of December 2024, Verstappen’s net worth is about $200 million. He gained this wealth from endorsements, investments, and his high-paying Formula 1 salary. Before 2020, though, his earnings were lower compared to the leading F1 drivers.

Q. Did Max Verstappen apologize?

A. Christian Horner said that Max Verstappen apologized to the Red Bull team after crashing with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. This collision caused Verstappen to fall from 5th to 10th place because he got a 10-second penalty.

Q. Max Verstappen: Who has the bigger net worth in 2025? Lewis Hamilton, with a net worth of $300 million, surpasses Max Verstappen’s $200 million. Hamilton’s wealth is from Formula 1 earnings, endorsements, smart investments, and properties.

A. Comparing Hamilton and Verstappen’s wealth, Hamilton typically has a higher net worth due to longer career success and various endorsement deals.

Q. Who did Max Verstappen lose respect for?

A. Max Verstappen stated he “lost all respect” for George Russell after a stewards’ meeting in Qatar about a qualifying incident in Formula 1.