Red Bull's chief dismisses Verstappen-Mercedes rumors sparked by Russell

Russell revealing Mercedes and Verstappen had 'ongoing conversations' did not bother Wolff one bit. When asked if whether or not there was any truth to Verstappen taking his lead at Red Bull Racing to go to Mercedes, Horner downplayed the situation.

"To be honest, we don't pay much attention to it," Christian Horner told Viaplay. "They are just rumors. We know very well where we stand with Max, and where we stand contractually with Max. So yes, the rest is just a lot of noise at this point."

The team boss quickly shifted focus back to the action on the track. The Red Bull looked good on Friday, although the gap with McLaren was still quite large. According to Helmut Marko, the gap looks bigger than it is. "Clearly, the intention is to try and close the gap with the McLarens. So hopefully, we'll achieve that," said Horner.

Bernie Ecclestone, the former Formula 1 boss, was spotted in the hospitality areas of the Austrian team. Viaplay asked Horner if Ecclestone, like Vettel, might take on a role within Red Bull.

"What? Bernie driving?" said the Brit initially. "I don't think he's managing Seb. But it’s great to see Bernie. He’s a guest at the Red Bull team this weekend. He's in top shape. 94 years old and still in good shape," said Horner.