Christian Horner Accepts Harsh Reality over Max Verstappen Inevitable Red Bull Exit

Christian Horner is aware that Max Verstappen will imminently exit Red Bull one day, no matter the journey he has had at Milton Keynes.

Christian Horner Accepts Harsh Reality over Max Verstappen Inevitable Red Bull Exit

Max Verstappen and Christian Horner (via Red Bull Content Pool)

Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull remains under scrutiny despite the team’s struggles seemingly at ease now. Teams such as Mercedes, Aston Martin, and others have allegedly provided Verstappen with some lucrative offers. While the Dutchman has shown his loyalty to the team on multiple occasions, anything can happen if the performance doesn’t improve. As such, Christian Horner accepts the harsh truth that the 27-year-old may leave the team abruptly due to the issues.

Max Verstappen’s exit rumors had a shocking twist that he allegedly wouldn’t be able to activate his exit clause if he were P4 or above in the championship standings. Moreover, Verstappen’s current focus is on improving Red Bull’s condition before considering leaving the team. Still, many people believe that the Dutchman is already considering his options and may take a solid step in the coming months.

Christian Horner didn’t hesitate to accept the ground reality of Verstappen leaving the team some day or the other. The Briton asserted that the 27-year-old’s contribution to the team was ‘evident’. Subsequently, the 51-year-old acknowledged that some day in the future, Milton Keynes would have to operate in the absence of the reigning world champion. Horner reckons that there are still a couple of years left in the Dutchman’s tank before he would seek to exit the Austrian constructor.

It is clear how big Max’s contribution is. And I know that one day we will have to do without him . Hopefully it will take a couple more years. But his performances are incredible and that gives a boost to the whole team

Christian Horner told De Telegraaf

Max Verstappen has reassured the team time and again that he doesn’t want to exit anytime soon, and that no amount of money would see him join Mercedes. Even Christian Horner firmly believes that Verstappen isn’t looking to leave the team soon. Horner also asserted that the 27-year-old has remained extremely loyal to the team as he grew closer to the crew over the years of racing together. The 51-year-old declared that the four-time champion is still happy with the team, regardless of the persistent struggles.

Do I think he could leave soon? No. He has always been loyal to the team and to Red Bull in general. We have become very close. I still think he is very happy here.

Christian Horner added

Christian Horner declares Max Verstappen cannot leave ‘whenever he wants’

Rumors of Max Verstappen looking to exit the team soon have continued to persist despite his efforts to work closely with the team. The rumored exit clause meant that leaving the team was always a possibility for the 27-year-old. However, as the condition of Verstappen leaving the team becomes more of a possibility, Christian Horner notes that the former couldn’t leave scot-free.

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen
Christian Horner and Max Verstappen (via F1)

Horner pointed out that Max Verstappen’s contract with the team meant that he wouldn’t be able to leave as easily as anticipated. The contracts have certain rules that bind him to the team. While the Briton accepts that there is a lot of excitement in acquiring the reigning world champion, he cannot simply leave the team and join the rivals due to the said contract.

A contract is something that is signed and contains principles, but then ends up in a drawer. After that, reference is made only when you have a problem. Around a pilot of his caliber and talent there will always be turmoil in this paddock. This does not mean that Verstappen can leave whenever he wants.

Christian Horner noted

Max Verstappen hasn’t officially spoken on his decision in the team for the coming season as he focuses on the 2025 season. This silence could go both ways, as the Dutchman isn’t really vocal when it comes to team decisions. However, the 27-year-old’s loyalty is undeniable, as leaving Red Bull would likely be the last thing on his mind. For now, the four-time champion will aim to keep scoring race wins and improve his position in the title battle.

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