Christian Horner confirmed that Oscar Piastri would be Red Bull’s primary target if Max Verstappen decided to leave the team, while emphasizing his confidence that Verstappen intends to remain. The remarks came amid renewed rumors from Italy linking Verstappen to a potential move to Mercedes, a scenario that Horner and others involved find unlikely.
Horner spoke directly about the rumors, stressing the strong relationship between Verstappen and Red Bull. According to Horner, Verstappen holds great trust in the team and is committed to his current contract.
Look, there’s obviously an awful lot of people talking about it, but what’s most important is the relationship between the driver and the team,
Horner said.
There’s an agreement that defines that as well and everybody’s very clear on where we’re at.
Horner highlighted that Verstappen’s entire career success has been intertwined with Red Bull Racing and that the Dutch driver is a key component of the team‘s structure and future plans.
So, whilst there’s always going to be speculation and noise, I think we all sit fairly comfortable with where we’re at and what the situation is. We can’t control the narrative of others but internally, we know where we’re at.
Potential Succession Planning Should Verstappen Depart
When asked about contingency plans if Verstappen were to leave, Horner, joined by McLaren CEO Zak Brown, named Oscar Piastri as their preferred replacement. Although Horner acknowledged the hypothetical nature of the discussion, he stressed that the team remains focused on its current drivers and relationships.
Verstappen, who is contracted with Red Bull until 2028, has expressed a desire to complete his career solely with the team, a sentiment Horner described as “quite special and unique.”
I think that’s quite special and unique for him. That’s what we’re focused on. We’re just ignoring the noise and focusing on the areas we know where we need to improve and how to do that.
Regarding the possibility of a McLaren driver becoming available due to internal dynamics, Horner reiterated Red Bull’s respect for existing driver contracts and underlined the importance of honoring those agreements.
I think we’ve always taken a position of respecting the contracts that drivers have with their existing teams.
Team Dynamics and Driver Stability at McLaren
Horner also commented on the competitive environment at McLaren, where two teammates are currently battling for the championship. He highlighted their ability to maintain a healthy working relationship despite the pressure that such competition brings.
He noted that every team’s dynamics are different, and questioned why McLaren’s drivers would consider leaving the fastest car on the grid, particularly when they are in strong positions.
So, I’d be astounded if there was any change to what they’ve committed to.
Echoing this confidence, Zak Brown was clear about McLaren’s stance on driver retention.
Our drivers aren’t going anywhere,
Brown said.
They’re very happy, we’re very happy, so there’s no need to look at any other drivers on the grid.
Contractual Details and Future Implications for Verstappen
Reports highlight that Verstappen’s contract includes a clause allowing for an early exit, but only under strict conditions, such as finishing outside the top four in the championship after the Hungarian Grand Prix. This implies that while a departure is not impossible, it remains unlikely given the current championship standings.
With Verstappen leading the championship and expressed eagerness to remain at Red Bull, it appears the team’s strategy will focus on continuity and strengthening areas requiring improvement to maintain their competitive edge.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet shared that they have a newborn daughter. They announced this news just before the Miami Grand Prix.
