Max Verstappen has broken his silence on Christian Horner's dismissal as Red Bull team principal, insisting the shock departure will have no bearing on his future with the team.
The four-time world champion addressed reporters ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, his first public comments since Horner was removed from his position three days after the British Grand Prix.
The 27-year-old Dutchman suggested he intends to remain with Red Bull despite ongoing speculation linking him with Mercedes.
"I don't think it will matter at all for my decision in the future," Verstappen stated when questioned about Horner's exit after two decades at the helm.
GETTY | Max Verstappen and Christian Horner achieved plenty of success together at Red BullHis comments come as Red Bull struggles with performance issues, currently sitting fourth in the constructors' championship whilst Verstappen himself occupies third place in the drivers' standings.
When pressed about his commitment to Red Bull, Verstappen appeared to hint at remaining with the team long-term.
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"The only thing that matters is that we work on the car and make it as fast as we can make it, really," he said.
The Dutch driver, who holds a contract through 2028 with exit clauses under specific circumstances, addressed speculation about a potential Mercedes move with characteristic directness.
"There's also a possibility I don't wake up tomorrow. So then there is no driving at all. So, life is unpredictable," he remarked.
However, he added: "But in general, I'm very happy where I'm at - and I hope.
"That was still the target that was set out when we signed the new deal, you know, that I would drive until the end of my career."
Red Bull's performance decline has been stark since mid-2024. Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive championship last year but managed just two victories in the final thirteen races.
The team's struggles have intensified in 2025, with Verstappen winning only twice in twelve grands prix at the season's halfway mark.
He trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by 69 points, whilst teammate Lando Norris also sits ahead in second place.
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PA | Max Verstappen has been linked with a move to Mercedes
Red Bull finds itself in fourth position in the constructors' standings, behind McLaren, Ferrari and Mercedes.
Verstappen acknowledged the team's difficulties, stating: "The last one and a half years have not been what we want to be."
He added: "Now we try to be more competitive this year a little bit, but for sure also with the new regulations," referring to Formula 1's upcoming 2026 rule changes.
Verstappen expressed confidence in new team principal Laurent Mekies, who was promoted from Racing Bulls.
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Getty | Christian Horner was sacked earlier this month"Management decided they wanted to steer the ship in a different direction, probably," he said of Horner's departure.
The Dutch driver revealed he has already held several meetings with Mekies, adding: "I'm equally also excited for the team now moving forward because that's what we have to do. You know, looking back, it doesn't make sense. It's not going to make you faster."
Regarding factory morale at Milton Keynes following the upheaval, Verstappen noted initial uncertainty had quickly dissipated. He visited the facility the day after the announcement for simulator work, emphasising the team's focus on performance.
When questioned about previous tensions between Horner and his father Jos, Verstappen dismissed concerns. "People can have a difference of opinion and I expect that to happen because if everyone agrees, there is a problem," he stated.