Max Verstappen, the Dutch driver from Red Bull Racing, is expected to fulfill his contract with the team despite rumors of a possible departure. Verstappen has been associated with Red Bull throughout his Formula 1 career and has enjoyed the team’s recent success by winning three consecutive driver titles. However, tensions arose within the Red Bull camp after allegations of inappropriate behavior against team principal Christian Horner. Although Horner was cleared of these accusations, Verstappen’s father, Jos, expressed concerns about the impact of Horner’s involvement in the team. When asked about the possibility of Verstappen leaving, Horner acknowledged the comments but emphasized the team’s focus on the future and their determination to defend their world titles. While discussions have taken place between the parties involved, Horner refused to disclose details, stating that the team is fully focused on the upcoming season and the challenges it presents.
After the Bahrain Grand Prix, Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, was photographed talking to Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, who is looking to replace Lewis Hamilton, who will move to Ferrari.
However, when asked about his contractual situation before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Verstappen himself expressed his long-term commitment to Red Bull.
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, believes that Verstappen will choose to stay with the reigning champions, considering the fact that Red Bull brought him into Formula 1 and provided him with winning cars in 55 races so far.
Horner stated: “I am confident that he will stay with Red Bull. He has a fantastic team supporting him and has great faith in them. We have already achieved a lot together. He has a contract until 2028. Both the team and Max are determined to continue building on our success. All 55 wins and podiums have been with Red Bull cars, and we want to add many more in the future.
Lewis Hamilton expressed his disapproval of Jos Verstappen’s involvement, stating that a father’s presence in a driver’s career can be a delicate issue.
When asked if Jos Verstappen’s presence was a distraction, Horner dismissed any concerns, emphasizing that Jos played a crucial role in Max’s racing journey.
“Max’s father has been instrumental in his career and getting him to Formula 1,” acknowledged Horner. “However, Jos is an independent person, and Max has become a successful young man. I cannot comment on the dynamics between parents and drivers, as each relationship is unique.”
