Max Verstappen has delivered his first public reaction to the stunning news that Christian Horner has been sacked by Red Bull, ending a partnership that redefined both the team and driver’s place in Formula 1 history. The reigning world champion, who owes much of his success to the guidance and leadership of Horner, paid a heartfelt tribute to his now-former boss on social media just hours after the news broke.
The departure of Horner, who led Red Bull for two decades, signals a seismic shift not only within the team but also across the Formula 1 paddock. Horner’s reign saw the team capture eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ crowns, establishing Red Bull as one of the sport’s dominant forces. Yet, a turbulent 18 months of off-track controversies, internal divisions, and a sharp slump in performance led to his dismissal, confirmed by Red Bull on Wednesday.
“From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!” Verstappen wrote, underlining the depth of their shared journey and the extraordinary achievements that have defined the modern era of Red Bull Racing.
Verstappen’s message stands in contrast to the air of uncertainty now hanging over the Milton Keynes-based squad. The Dutchman’s close relationship with Horner was widely considered one of the keys to Red Bull’s recent dominance, with the pair sharing not just a professional partnership, but also genuine mutual respect.
Uncertain Future for Red Bull and Its Star Driver
With Verstappen currently under contract until 2028, questions immediately turn to what Horner’s exit could mean for both the team and their star driver’s long-term future. Rumours have already swirled about Verstappen’s potential departure, especially as Mercedes monitor the status of his reported exit clauses should Red Bull’s performance continue to dip.
Behind the scenes, Red Bull has been rocked by key departures—including technical visionary Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, exposing deep fractures in a team that was once famed for its unity and relentless ambition. The abrupt removal of Horner, just days after the 2025 British Grand Prix where Red Bull slumped to a distant fourth in the standings, only intensifies those questions.
More from the Singapore GP
Catch up with Total Motorsport's latest Singapore GP coverage, including Max Verstappen's victory at Marina Bay, Ferrari's costly strategy gamble, the full race classification, and the updated 2026 Formula 1 Drivers' and Constructors' Championship standings.
The Formula 1 community has responded with a mix of shock, sadness, and speculation. Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle described the situation as “not completely out of the blue, given things that are going on and the sort of problems in the team.” Many insiders see the split as a result of both recent performance woes and behind-the-scenes power struggles, particularly involving the Verstappen camp and Red Bull’s divided ownership.
For now, Verstappen’s public statement is one of gratitude and nostalgia rather than frustration or anger. The Dutch driver, who became the face of Red Bull’s modern era, remains the team’s most important asset as F1 moves into the second half of a turbulent season.
Yet with rivals like Mercedes and Aston Martin circling, and Red Bull’s future leadership still uncertain, all eyes will remain on Verstappen’s next move. Horner’s exit is more than the end of an era; it’s a crossroads that could reshape both Verstappen’s destiny and the future at Red Bull in Formula 1.
