Horner: Verstappen's Commitment to Red Bull Never in Doubt

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has insisted that Max Verstappen's commitment to the squad has never been in doubt, despite rumors of a split last season. The Dutchman, who has won four Formula 1 world drivers' championships with the Milton Keynes-based outfit, faced numerous questions about his future amid Red Bull’s mid-season challenges and Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff's attempts to lure him following Lewis Hamilton's switch to Ferrari.

Verstappen’s Unwavering Commitment

Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull through to the end of 2028. Addressing speculation about his future, Horner told Autosport:

"Max has always been crystal clear with the team. His commitment has been unwavering. He enjoys the people that he trusts and the people that he works with and enjoys very much being a part of this team."

Horner added that while Verstappen’s talent makes him a coveted driver for many teams, Red Bull’s ability to provide a competitive car and enjoyable environment keeps him loyal.

"Of course, with the talent that he has, I'm sure he's on every team principal’s Christmas wish list. That’s inevitable. But, as long as we can continue to provide him with a competitive car and an environment that he enjoys racing in, I don't see any desire for him to be anywhere else."

Addressing the Rumors

Speculation intensified when Verstappen mentioned during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix that he would leave if motorsport advisor Helmut Marko did. Horner clarified:

"Well, Helmut hasn’t left and isn’t leaving, so I think that Max is… he recognizes the value of team and that's really, again, what he's nurtured during this period. When the car isn't delivering as you hope, your pitstops have got to be strong, the strategy has gotta be good, your reliabilities gotta be there, you've gotta be making the right decisions at the right moments."

Overcoming Turmoil

Red Bull's internal turmoil included pre-season allegations against Horner over behavior toward a female employee, followed by speculation about his future within the team amid a power struggle. Verstappen’s father Jos added fuel to the flames by suggesting the team would implode if Horner remained at the helm. Horner explained how they managed the difficult period:

"The thing is, as soon as you step across that red line into the garage, all the noise from the paddock you leave behind. And as soon as you went across that red line everything is business as normal."

Horner was cleared of wrongdoing in an investigation launched by Red Bull over his behavior. Asked if he has altered his management approach, Horner said:

"My role remains unchanged. In that there’s an awful lot… I wear many hats with [being] trackside I'm the team principal of a high-performing sports team and from Monday to Friday, I'm the CEO of three technology businesses on chassis, engine and advanced technology. So, nothing has changed, business as normal."

Key Highlights

• Verstappen’s Loyalty: Max's commitment to Red Bull remains strong and clear.

• Team Dynamics: Red Bull's challenges are managed with a focus on team strength and resilience.

• Management Approach: Horner’s role remains unchanged despite past turmoil.

• Contract Until 2028: Verstappen is contracted to stay with Red Bull through 2028.