Max Verstappen Will Not Leave Red Bull After Christian Horner Exit, Says Manager
In a major development that sent shockwaves through Formula 1, Red Bull Racing parted ways with its long-serving team principal Christian Horner earlier this week. The 51-year-old’s removal, following months of internal controversy, has triggered questions about Red Bull's internal stability—particularly around the future of its star driver, Max Verstappen.
However, Verstappen's manager Raymond Vermeulen has made it clear: the reigning world champion is staying put.
Christian Horner’s Sacking and What It Means
Horner was relieved of his duties by Red Bull’s parent company on Wednesday, a move that caught much of the F1 community off guard. Although Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing after facing allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” by a female colleague last year, his continued presence created a rift within the team—especially after Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, publicly claimed the team would “explode” if Horner remained in charge.
Replacing Horner is Laurent Mekies, who previously led the Racing Bulls and held senior roles at Ferrari. His appointment signals a fresh era for Red Bull, but also raises new questions about the team's leadership, especially with Alan Permane, the respected veteran engineer and former Alpine Sporting Director, expected to play a larger operational role under Mekies.
Raymond Vermeulen: “Nothing Changes for Us”
Speaking shortly after the news broke, Vermeulen told reporters:
“This is a decision Red Bull has made, and we have taken note of it. It is up to Red Bull to share the background information regarding the decision. In Red Bull's view, this is the best way forward.”
“Nothing changes for us. We have a contract with Red Bull and are committed, as we have been for eleven years. Our main goal now is to get performance back. Max wants to get the most out of the equipment he has at his disposal.”
“We also realise that the championship is no longer within his reach this season.”
Verstappen’s 2025 Season So Far
Although Verstappen, now 27, remains the classical benchmark of modern F1 dominance, this season has not unfolded as expected. Currently 69 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri, Verstappen has won only two races so far.
At the British Grand Prix, he started from pole but finished fifth after spinning behind the safety car in tricky wet conditions—an uncharacteristic error for the usually consistent Dutchman.
Red Bull’s New Chapter: Laurent Mekies and Alan Permane
Laurent Mekies takes over amid one of Red Bull’s most tumultuous seasons since its early days. Known for his calm leadership at Racing Bulls and deep technical acumen from his Ferrari stint, Mekies is expected to bring a methodical approach.
Assisting him will be Alan Permane, who joined Red Bull earlier this year. Permane is a highly experienced figure in F1, often credited with steering mid-field teams through challenging transitions. With Horner out and Mekies-Permane now in charge, RedBull is undergoing a quiet revolution behind the scenes.
Rumors of Verstappen’s Exit: Mercedes and Aston Martin
Horner's exit has revived rumours linking Verstappen with Mercedes. Team principal Toto Wolff has not shied away from expressing interest. With George Russell's contract expiring this season, Mercedes may see 2026 as a reset year.
Aston Martin, backed by billionaire Lawrence Stroll and with a growing technical partnership with Honda, is also keen. However, insiders suggest that neither team is willing to match Verstappen's current £50 million/year salary.
Strategic Stability is Verstappen’s Priority
For Verstappen, it appears strategic and engineering stability matter more than leadership headlines. Despite the internal politics, he has stayed focused on maximizing performance—an attitude reinforced by Vermeulen's statement.
“Our role remains the same. Max wants to race and win. That’s it. Whether it’s Horner or Mekies, the car has to deliver,” a source close to the Verstappen camp told TheTrendingPeople.com.
What’s Ahead for Red Bull?
Red Bull’s immediate priority is salvaging this season while building for the 2026 regulation overhaul. With Laurent Mekies now leading, supported by Alan Permane, and Verstappen still in the cockpit, the team will enter the Belgian Grand Prix (25–27 July) under new management—but with familiar pressure.
Takeaway: Verstappen Remains the Anchor
Amid turmoil at the top, Max Verstappen remains the cornerstone of Red Bull's F1 project. Despite Horner’s high-profile exit, there is no indication—at least for now—that Verstappen is looking elsewhere. The Dutch driver is committed, focused, and looking ahead to Spa.
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