Max Verstappen candidly reflected on his relationship with Christian Horner after the former team principal was dismissed from Red Bull Racing in July, stating the Max Verstappen Christian Horner relationship remains strong even as the team moves in a new direction. The reshuffling came after Horner’s long reign, during which he and Verstappen steered Red Bull to numerous world titles and created one of Formula 1’s defining partnerships.
Christian Horner led Red Bull from its F1 debut in 2005, overseeing an era that saw the team ascend to the top of the sport. Under his stewardship, Red Bull clinched 14 championships—eight drivers’ titles and six constructors’ crowns—with Verstappen playing a pivotal role in six of those triumphs after joining from Toro Rosso at just 18 years old.
Atmosphere and Power Struggles Preceded Horner’s Departure
In the final year and a half before Horner’s removal, tensions mounted within Red Bull. Despite being cleared after allegations of inappropriate conduct, Horner faced internal challenges, including a power battle that erupted following the death of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz. During this turbulent period, the team’s performance suffered, slipping to fourth place in the Constructors’ standings—a far cry from its previous dominance.
This dip in form and unrest led to Red Bull’s upper management deciding it was time for a change, appointing Laurent Mekies, formerly of the sister team, as the new team principal. Verstappen responded to the new leadership by launching an unexpected campaign for the championship, ultimately finishing second behind Lando Norris, showing the squad’s rapid resurgence.
Verstappen Reflects on the Team’s Difficult Period and Relationship With Horner
Verstappen addressed the challenging atmosphere that took hold during Horner’s final months, emphasizing the need for change within the organization.
“Things weren’t going very well for the whole team,”
Verstappen said in an interview with Viaplay, highlighting the internal unrest and dissatisfaction among shareholders.
He spoke openly about his personal connection to Horner, describing the difficulty of watching a long-time ally and mentor leave the team.
“Ultimately, it’s always difficult. You’ve built up a bond with Christian and achieved so much – especially in 2021, those moments too. You’ll never forget that. Christian really went through fire for me. Those kinds of things are always difficult when you talk to each other on the phone.”
– Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
Maintaining Contact and Mutual Support Amid Change
Despite the new leadership, Verstappen revealed that his communication with Horner remains frequent and supportive. He shared that the two regularly exchange messages—not only during race weekends, but also in their personal lives.
“What we’ve all been through. But also, ‘you know you can do it’. You know, all that kind of stuff and outside of that, of course, you talk about things other than racing too. Yes, every week. Every race weekend. Even after his contact.”
– Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
The nature of their messages underscores a continued bond rooted in mutual respect and encouragement. Verstappen described Horner as his “biggest fan,” with messages often focused on well-wishes and confidence in Verstappen’s abilities, reinforcing the Max Verstappen Christian Horner relationship as deeply resilient despite professional changes.
Red Bull’s Atmosphere Improves Under New Leadership
Though Verstappen remains close to Horner personally, he acknowledged that the adjustments made at Red Bull have restored a positive spirit within the team. The transition to Mekies’ leadership is credited with rebuilding the environment and rekindling what Verstappen described as the team’s signature style and camaraderie.
“We have a lot of confidence. You see people smiling, it’s a nice environment, everyone gets along well and we missed that at one point. The Red Bull style was a bit lost or gone.”
– Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
Verstappen confirmed that the sense of unity has returned to the Red Bull camp.
“Yes, and that has definitely returned.”
– Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
Looking Forward for Verstappen and Red Bull
While Horner’s departure marked the end of an era for Red Bull and one of F1’s most successful alliances, Verstappen’s remarks make clear that their personal connection persists. The changes within Red Bull have already led to improved morale and performance, hinting at a revitalized outlook for the organization as it continues to compete at the highest level. Fans, team members, and observers will be closely watching how the enduring Max Verstappen Christian Horner relationship influences the team’s culture as Red Bull builds momentum into its next chapter.
