According to Dutch journalist Erik van Haren, the involvement of Max Verstappen‘s camp, particularly his father Jos Verstappen, in the removal of Christian Horner from Red Bull should neither be exaggerated nor downplayed. Van Haren, recognized as a close insider to the Red Bull driver’s circle, emphasized a balanced view regarding the situation.
Writing for De Telegraaf, he dismissed claims that Verstappen has already signed with Mercedes and noted that any decision about the reigning world champion’s future will be made public during the upcoming summer break.
Van Haren did not clarify the extent of Jos Verstappen’s influence in Horner’s sacking but reinforced previous reports highlighting the pivotal role of Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull GmbH’s managing director, in the leadership change. He emphasized that Max Verstappen’s involvement
“can neither be underestimated nor overestimated.”
“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,” wrote van Haren. [Translated from Dutch via Google]
“However, his influence [in Horner’s firing] can neither be underestimated nor overestimated,” he added.
Contradictory narratives have emerged explaining Horner’s dismissal. Some suggest pressure from Verstappen’s camp while others view it as a strategic move by Red Bull to retain their four-time world champion at Milton Keynes. The report confirmed that Mintzlaff was the main architect of the firing decision, supported by both Austrian and Thai stakeholders within the Red Bull group.
Van Haren Rejects Rumors Linking Horner’s Exit to Verstappen’s Continued Stay at Red Bull
Erik van Haren dismissed rumors that Max Verstappen’s contract extension with Red Bull is contingent upon Christian Horner’s departure, calling such speculation “nonsense.” Despite the board’s strong desire to keep Verstappen, the team’s leadership remains anxious about his possible exit.
Van Haren described the uncertainty surrounding Verstappen’s future as a significant source of tension within the team.
“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 [via De Telegraaf].
“Rather, the Red Bull leadership is still terrified that Verstappen will leave after all,” he added.
The ambiguity over Verstappen’s contract not only affects Red Bull but also has implications for Mercedes. Drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, both currently without contracts for 2026, face uncertain futures depending on whether Verstappen moves to Brackley with Mercedes.
Implications for Formula 1 Team Dynamics and Future Transfers
The developments highlight the delicate balance of power within Red Bull and the broader Formula 1 ecosystem. Oliver Mintzlaff’s leadership decisions indicate a shift in the team’s management approach, while the Verstappen camp’s true level of influence remains subject to interpretation.
Whether Horner’s firing will stabilize the team or contribute to further strain depends largely on forthcoming decisions about Verstappen’s career path. Should Verstappen choose to leave, it could trigger significant reshuffling across top teams, directly impacting drivers like Russell and Antonelli.
As the summer break approaches, the Formula 1 community awaits announcements that could reshape the sport’s competitive landscape, underscoring the ongoing tension and uncertainty within Red Bull and Mercedes.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a billionaire?
A. Different sources suggest that Max Verstappen’s estimated wealth is around $210 million.
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. Verstappen and Piquet have announced that they now have a baby girl named Lily. Before the final race of the 2024 season in Abu Dhabi, they let everyone know they were expecting. Lily is now a younger sister to Piquet’s other child, Penelope.
Q. Is Max Verstappen’s child a boy?
A. MIAMI — Max Verstappen shared the news about welcoming his first child with partner Kelly Piquet. On Friday, the four-time world champion posted on Instagram about their baby girl, Lily.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Kelly Piquet, who is Max Verstappen’s partner, is the daughter of former world champion Nelson Piquet. She has a daughter named Penelope from her past relationship with Daniil Kvyat, an ex-F1 driver.
Verstappen has developed a strong bond with Penelope. He mentioned this when questioned if fatherhood could hinder his racing performance.
