'There's A Chance I Won't Drive At All...': Max Verstappen Addresses Horner's Exit, Mercedes Rumours
Max Verstappen has made it clear that Christian Horner's sudden departure as Red Bull team principal will not influence his own future with the team.
The four-time world champion, who has been the subject of transfer speculation linking him to Mercedes for the 2026 season, indicated on Thursday that he remains committed to seeing out his current contract with Red Bull, which runs through 2028.
Speaking to reporters ahead of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix—a circuit close to his heart due to his Belgian birthplace and maternal roots—the 27-year-old Dutchman emphasized that his focus remains solely on car performance, not management changes.
Horner's Departure Has 'No Impact"
When asked if Horner's exit after two decades at the helm made it more likely that he would stay with Red Bull, Verstappen gave a firm and simple response:
'No, it doesn't. Not really."
He also downplayed the reported tensions between his father, Jos Verstappen, and Horner, saying personal disputes had no role in shaping his professional decisions.
'People can have a difference of opinion, and I expect that to happen. If everyone agrees, there is a problem.
'You need to have differences in opinion. Now, we will work in a different direction, and I am excited about it. I don't think it will matter at all for the decision over my future."
Backing Mekies for New Chapter
Verstappen expressed enthusiasm for the team's new leadership under Laurent Mekies, who has been promoted from Red Bull's sister team, Racing Bulls, to replace Horner.
'I had already had quite a few meetings with Laurent as well, you know. The last two weeks have been quite intense.
'I'm equally excited for the team now moving forward because that's what we have to do."
Mekies' technical background is expected to sharpen Red Bull's engineering direction as they look to reclaim dominance in a fiercely competitive field.
On His Future: 'Life Is Unpredictable"
When asked whether he had a decision to make regarding his future, Verstappen responded with philosophical ambiguity.
'There is also the possibility of not waking up tomorrow, and so there is no driving.
'Life is unpredictable and, in general, I am happy with where I am at…
'The target was that when I signed my deal, I would drive here until the end of my career."
Despite the swirling rumors and shifting leadership, Verstappen appeared calm and focused, preferring to channel his energy into performance on the track.
(with agency inputs)
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July 24, 2025, 23:32 IST
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