Martin Brundle speculates: Horner’s departure increases the chances that Verstappen will stay at Red Bull despite his exit clause
Following the surprise departure of Christian Horner as team principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing, former Formula 1 driver and current TV expert Martin Brundle believes that the chances of Max Verstappen continuing to drive for his current team in the future have increased.
“It perhaps makes it more likely that the Verstappens, Jos and Max, will stay. I think it’s become very personal,“ Brundle explained on Sky Sports News. The Briton pointed to Verstappen’s previous successes with the Red Bull team: ”Every point, every podium and every victory Max has achieved has been in a Red Bull. He has often said that he wants to end his career at Red Bull if possible.”
Brundle also emphasized the significance of the upcoming technical upheavals in Formula 1: “Red Bull is bringing its own engine to the grid for the first time next year—that will be the biggest change in the history of cars and engines in Formula 1.”
Horner was heavily involved in this project. At the same time, Verstappen has an exit clause linked to his position in the drivers’ championship at the end of the month. Brundle therefore speculates: “Does that mean he’s leaving or staying? I can only guess that he’s staying.”
On July 9, 2025, Horner was replaced with immediate effect by Laurent Mekies, who was previously team principal at Racing Bulls. Red Bull did not give any official reasons for the replacement of its long-standing team principal. However, it came after a period of sporting problems and a public dispute with Max Verstappen’s father, Jos.
Even before Horner’s departure, there had been rumors of a possible move by Verstappen to Mercedes. Their team boss Toto Wolff confirmed talks with the Dutchman but emphasized that a move in 2026 was unlikely – although he did not rule it out for the future.
Commenting on Horner’s departure, Brundle said: “It doesn’t come completely out of the blue, given the problems in the team. I’m pretty sad about it. I consider Christian a friend. He has done an incredible job for over 20 years.”
Horner has been a defining figure for the team, the Sky expert continued: “He has won many races and world championships for drivers and the team. He turned the former Stewart and later Jaguar team into a huge campus in Milton Keynes and built up an impressive collection of titles. Recently, however, it was noticeable that things weren’t running smoothly behind the scenes.”
