Italian media floated claims that Christian Horner’s job hinged on the success of Red Bull’s Imola upgrades, citing concern from Thai shareholders.
The story suggested failure to close the gap to McLaren could cost the long-serving team boss his role.
Driver Response
Verstappen expressed bewilderment when asked by Sky Italy.
“Honestly, I have no idea where they come from, to be honest,” he said.
“People ask me questions about that and I’m like: ‘Honestly, I really don’t know who even puts that in the world.’”
He stressed the squad’s focus on performance rather than off-track chatter.
Contractual Security
Horner, at the helm since 2005, holds a contract through 2030.
Sources close to the energy-drink giant dismissed any immediate threat, noting competitive dips are inevitable across a season.
Bigger Picture
Red Bull currently trails McLaren in both championships but continues to introduce updates and plan a major aerodynamic push for mid-summer.
Verstappen reiterated his own commitment, saying he intends to honour a deal running until 2028 despite outside links to Mercedes or Aston Martin.
Moving Forward
Insiders believe shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya remains supportive provided the team stabilises results and maintains marketing momentum.
A strong Imola haul would likely quiet rumours until at least the European leg concludes.
The post Max Verstappen breaks silence on Christian Horner sacking appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk .
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