Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner, acknowledges that he lacks the authority to compel Max Verstappen to stay with the team if he decides to depart.
The recent weeks have been tumultuous for the Milton Keynes-based outfit, following allegations against Horner of misconduct. However, an independent investigation, initiated by Red Bull GmbH, dismissed the claims.
Nevertheless, the aftermath has heightened tensions within Red Bull, involving Horner, Jos Verstappen, and Helmut Marko. Marko faced scrutiny over a potential suspension during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, but it has since been confirmed that no such action will be taken.
During this period, Max Verstappen fervently defended Marko and hinted at a potential departure if the motorsport advisor were to leave. However, Verstappen’s response was not as supportive towards Horner during the Bahrain Grand Prix, prompting inquiries into the status of their relationship.
“It’s absolutely fine with Max,” Horner stated. “He is working well within the team, there’s no tension, no stress.
“You can see how relaxed he is around the garage with everybody in the team and that’s translating to his performance on track as well. So we don’t see any issues with Max.”
Horner stressed the significance of contemplating the prospect of Verstappen departing before the conclusion of his contract, which is scheduled for 2028.
“It’s like anything in life, you can’t force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper.
“If somebody didn’t want to be in this team, then we’re not going to force somebody against their will to be here.
“That applies whether it is a machine operator or a designer or someone in one of the support functions, that runs through the business.
“Being involved in a team like this involves commitment and passion and Max has that, we have seen that – he’s been here since he was 18 years of age.
“I have no doubt of his commitment and passion going forward.”
