Horner opens door for Verstappen to leave? 'These mechanics exist within the contract'

A day ago, GPblog reported the two deciding factors in Max Verstappen's choice for next season: who has the best material and which team has peace within. Although the Dutchman also has a preference to stay with the Austrians, his camp is keeping its options open. In terms of the peace aspect, a switch to another team could also happen if, supposedly, Christian Horner's power is not scaled back.

"A lot people talking are about it but what is most important is the relationship between the driver of the team. And obviously there's an agreement that defines that as well and everybody's very clear on where we're at. Max has been with Red Bull since the very start of his career all his success has come in obviously Red Bull Racing cars and and he's a big part of our team, and he has a great deal of faith in the team and the people around him," the team principal began.

Asked about a plan B, he commented: "Oscar Piastri," the Briton laughed. "It’s all as subjective as that. I think that we're very focused on our current drivers and the relationship. Max has got a contract until 2028. He's made it quite clear that he would like to finish his career in a Red Bull car from start to finish. I think that's quite special and unique for him. And that's what we're focused on. We're just ignoring the noise and focusing on the areas we know where we need to improve and how to do that."

An all or nothing weekend also awaits the Austrian squad, as they present updates for the British Grand Prix. Verstappen does not count on being able to fight for the title with these changes, but he does want to see that his team has got back on the right track.

The Red Bull team principal was also asked whether he can declare Verstappen will compete for the team next season. "The contracts between the drivers and the teams are always going to remain confidential. With any driver's contract, there is an element of a performance mechanism. Of course, that exists within Max's contract now. His intention is that he will be there and driving for us in 2026."

"Now, it's inevitable that he's of huge interest to any other team in the pit lane. And I think actually probably George [Russell] triggered all this speculation, probably trying to leverage his own situation and force clarity, which you can understand because he's driven a very good season as well this year. But inevitably there will always be speculation about it. I think the most important thing is the clarity there will always be that exists between Max and the team and that's very clear," Horner concluded.