Max Verstappen's father Jos delivered a chilling message to Christian Horner, just days before Red Bull made the decision to sack him.
Red Bull axed Horner as team principal on Wednesday, ending his two-decade tenure with the Milton Keynes-based outfit.
The dismissal came after mounting tensions within the organisation and a significant decline in the team's competitive edge.
The team's results have deteriorated markedly since concerns emerged about the outfit potentially falling apart last year.
Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen had a heated exchange
GETTYThe catalyst for Horner's downfall appears to have been a heated confrontation at last weekend's British Grand Prix.
Jos Verstappen, father of four-time world champion Max, engaged in what witnesses described as a fierce debate with senior Red Bull personnel.
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After gesturing wildly and pointing his finger at communications chief Paul Smith, the elder Verstappen reportedly turned to Horner with a chilling warning: "I'll keep the pressure on you, Christian."
This dramatic scene unfolded after Max Verstappen's disappointing fifth-place finish at Silverstone.
Despite securing pole position, the reigning champion crossed the line more than 56 seconds behind race winner Lando Norris of McLaren.
Red Bull's competitive decline has left Max Verstappen trailing championship leader Oscar Piastri by 69 points, despite the Dutchman's exceptional individual performances. The team's struggles have become increasingly evident as the season progresses.
Verstappen acknowledged his long partnership with Horner in a brief social media farewell, writing: "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!"
The 27-year-old has made clear he won't extend his Formula 1 career as long as veterans like Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso.
Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen were caught on camera having an animated exchange at the Bahrain Grand PrixSKYMercedes team principal Toto Wolff has previously attempted to lure Verstappen away from Red Bull, and speculation continues about a potential switch. A vacancy could materialise at year's end when George Russell's contract expires.
Such a move would prove harsh on Russell, who's enjoying a strong season. However, Wolff could realise his ideal driver pairing by uniting Verstappen with rising star Kimi Antonelli.
Aston Martin has also emerged as a potential destination, with former Red Bull design genius Adrian Newey now crafting their 2026 challenger.
Yet their current eighth-place standing in the Constructors' Championship makes attracting Verstappen a considerable challenge.
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