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Horner Denies Verstappen Link to Red Bull Sacking
25 Feb
Summary
- Christian Horner denies Max Verstappen's family caused his Red Bull exit.
- Horner's departure stemmed from a power struggle after the founder's death.
- Red Bull's Austrian side grew frustrated with Horner's extensive control.
Christian Horner stated that neither Max Verstappen nor his father, Jos, were responsible for his dismissal as team boss from Red Bull in July 2025. Horner, who had led the team since 2005, indicated his exit was precipitated by a complex political shift within the Red Bull organization following the passing of founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2022.
Horner suggested that his perceived excessive control over both racing and commercial matters led to his removal. He believes the decision was orchestrated by Red Bull executive Oliver Mintzlaff, with input from Helmut Marko, as the Austrian faction of the company, controlling 49%, grew increasingly dissatisfied with his authority. Horner noted the suddenness of his departure, which occurred around February 2026, leaving little time for a proper farewell.
