Christian Horner asserts Max Verstappen not comfortable with F1’s ‘noise and circus’
Christian Horner revealed that Max Verstappen might consider leaving the sport early due to the extreme 'noise and circus' in the paddock.
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Christian Horner and Max Verstappen (Via Imago)
Formula 1 is often known as the giant circus due to the massive drama, cut-throat rivalries, and high-stakes moments over a race weekend. Multiple drivers clash heads with each other on the track especially when the championship title is at stake. Similarly, Max Verstappen was caught in a whirlwind of troubles in the 2024 season due to multiple reasons which might cause his early exit from the sport.
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris were the favorites for the championship title in the 2024 season and collided with each other on multiple occasions. The Dutchman also spoke sternly against the ‘British bias’ that he faced in the sport. Red Bull boss Christian Horner reckoned that these very issues might imminently cause Verstappen to exit the sport early overall. The Briton suggested that the 27-year-old would continue in the sport as long as he finds true enjoyment out of racing.
He’s got interests outside of Formula 1, he enjoys driving GT cars, he enjoys driving simulators, he enjoys driving LMP cars – and there are certain things that he’s very old school about in many respects. Some of the noise and circus around Formula 1 doesn’t sit comfortably with him, and so long as he is getting enjoyment out of what he does, he’ll do it.
Christian Horner told racingnews365.com
Horner revealed that as soon as the point of interest wasn’t present for Verstappen, he would start waging his options. The 51-year-old applauded the Dutchman’s strength of character and personality to make a difficult decision with rather ease. The reigning world champion could declare his interest in racing GT cars out of the blue, ditching F1.
As soon as that enjoyment drops, he’s got the strength of character and personality to say: ‘Do you know what, I’m going to go and drive GTs next year.
Christian Horner added
Christian Horner ‘hoping’ for Max Verstappen to continue with Red Bull until atleast 2028
Max Verstappen currently has a contract with Red Bull that runs until the end of the 2028 season. However, the team’s dwindling pace alongside Mercedes’ serious interest in the Dutchman might witness him jump ship soon. Verstappen’s future with Milton Keynes remains unknown despite him showcasing his loyalty to the team on countless occasions.
Christian Horner noted that the team and he were grateful to have Verstappen as the primary driver. The 51-year-old hoped for the lineup to remain the same atleast until the Dutchman’s contract expiration. However, Horner reckoned that he didn’t have a ‘crystal ball’ to predict the future.
We are very grateful that he is our driver, and hopefully that will remain the case for many years to come, until at least 2028, but nobody has a crystal ball.
Christian Horner noted
Red Bull has a plethora of issues to deal with before the commencement of the 2025 season. Deeming a good start to the season amidst the massive personnel change is the first and foremost challenge for the team. Moreover, the team would have to simultaneously gain learnings for the regulation changes of the 2026 season.
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Aditya Pandya
(1439 Articles Published)