Max Verstappen has minimized the impact of the output of Christian Horner as team leader Red Bull Racingstating that his future in the team does not depend on this change. “I don’t think it matters at all for my decision in the future,” said the Dutch this Thursday during the Belgium Grand Prix.
Although Horner was a key figure during the most successful stage of Verstappen in the F1 – with four consecutive titles – the pilot made it clear that his commitment to the team remains firm. “The relationship between Christian and I does not change. Although it is not here on the race weekend, it is still like a second family for me,” he said.
Verstappen, whose contract with Red Bull extends until 2028, is currently in the third position of the championship, behind the McLaren pilots, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. However, there are rumors about a performance clause in his contract that could allow him to leave the team earlier than expected. Although the details have not been revealed, Verstappen said: “The only priority is to work in the car and do it as quickly as possible.”
Verstappen could exchange ideas with the new boss
With the arrival of Laurent Mekies, from the Racing Bulls subsidiary team, as the new Red Bull team leader, Verstappen also briefly commented on the transition. “I have already had some meetings with him. I can’t say that in two weeks everything has changed suddenly, but we are trying to improve and has been positive.”
The Dutch pilot also admitted that the last 18 months have not been at the expected level, and that his focus is to recover competitiveness, especially in the face of the new regulations that will enter into force.
