Red Bull boss Christian Horner is not concerned about the speculations surrounding Max Verstappen‘s future. Following Red Bull’s lackluster start to the season, the four-time world champion is once again heavily linked with a transfer. His current contract is reportedly filled with exit clauses. However, Horner is confident that Verstappen will continue racing for the Austrians next year.
Red Bull’s top advisor, Helmut Marko, expressed serious concerns about the Dutchman’s future after the disappointing race weekend in Bahrain – where Max Verstappen finished sixth. Since then, rumors of an early exit have only increased. Mercedes or Aston Martin could be his next destination. Lawrence Stroll’s team is even said to have already offered him a new mega contract.
‘Max has already confirmed his commitment’
In a conversation with Sky Sports on Friday, Christian Horner dismissed all rumors; when asked if Verstappen would still be driving for Red Bull in 2026, he gave a clear answer. “I think ‘noise’ covers it,” he referred to all the speculations. “There has been a lot of noise, both inside and outside the team. But I think Max reaffirmed his commitment yesterday.” During a press conference leading up to the race weekend in Saudi Arabia, Verstappen explained that he is not at all considering a switch. “Everyone is talking about it, except me,” said the reigning champion.
“Our focus is on making the car faster – that’s where our focus lies. Verstappen is simply part of that,” Horner continued. “He is a dedicated member of the team. Everything around that is nothing more than speculation and rumors.” When asked about Marko’s statements, Horner added that the team advisor is entitled to his own opinion, but reiterated that Verstappen’s future will not be a problem as long as Red Bull can turn the tide.”
