Christian Horner drops Max Verstappen and Red Bull bombshell ahead of the new F1 season

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has made a surprising statement about Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1. Despite Verstappen being the reigning four-time world champion, Horner believes that the Dutch driver may not stay in the sport for as long as other top drivers like Fernando Alonso or Lewis Hamilton. Horner says that Verstappen is his own man and has interests outside of F1, such as driving GT cars and simulators. He also mentions that Verstappen is not defined by F1 and may leave the sport as soon as he stops enjoying it.

Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull expires in 2028, but Horner thinks that he may quit F1 before then. Horner says that he has had conversations with Verstappen and believes that he will only continue driving in F1 as long as he is enjoying it. If Verstappen’s enjoyment of the sport dips, Horner thinks that he has the strength of character to walk away and pursue other interests.

This statement comes as Red Bull is facing increased competition from other teams like McLaren and Ferrari in the upcoming 2025 season. Despite this, Horner is grateful to have Verstappen as their driver and hopes that he will remain with the team for many years to come. However, Horner acknowledges that no one can predict the future and that Verstappen’s decision to stay or leave F1 will ultimately be up to him.