Verstappen maintains strong ties with Horner post-Red Bull
Max Verstappen has disclosed that he maintains frequent communication with Christian Horner, more than half a year since the team principal’s departure from Red Bull Racing, reports BritPanorama.
The four-time world champion receives messages from his former boss every grand prix weekend, often connecting through text messages throughout Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. “But also on holiday, for example. Every week. Every race weekend,” Verstappen told Viaplay.
Verstappen described Horner as his “biggest fan,” sharing words of encouragement such as “good luck” and “I believe in you.” This ongoing support highlights the strong bond they forged during their time together.
Horner’s tenure at Red Bull came to an abrupt conclusion following last year’s British Grand Prix in July. The 52-year-old had served the team for two decades, steering it to six constructors’ championships and eight drivers’ titles before being dismissed amid a challenging start to the 2025 campaign, where the team had secured only two victories.
“Things weren’t going particularly well for the whole team,” Verstappen acknowledged. “In terms of results, there was a bit of unrest in the team.” Shareholders pushed for leadership changes, dissatisfied with the trajectory of the outfit.
The departure weighed heavily on Verstappen, given their deep professional relationship established during the tumultuous 2021 championship season. “Ultimately, it’s always difficult. You’ve built up a bond with Christian and achieved so much especially in 2021, including those moments. You never forget that,” he reflected.
The conversations between the two extend beyond racing, highlighting an ongoing support system despite Horner’s exit. “Things like that are always difficult when you talk to each other on the phone,” Verstappen acknowledged, underscoring the bittersweet nature of their ongoing dialogue. Following Horner’s departure, Laurent Mekies, formerly of Racing Bulls, took over leadership and has overseen a transformation in team morale.
Verstappen has noted a significant improvement in the team’s atmosphere at Milton Keynes. “The team is doing well. We have a lot of confidence. You see people smiling, there’s a great atmosphere, everyone gets on well with each other and that’s something we missed at one point,” he explained. “The Red Bull style had been lost or gone a bit. That has definitely returned.”
This year’s competitions have been marked by Verstappen’s impressive performance, securing six victories from the final nine races, although he narrowly missed claiming a fifth world title, finishing just two points behind Lando Norris at the Abu Dhabi finale. With the team regaining its footing, expectations are high for the remainder of the season and beyond.
As Verstappen looks to the future, his collaboration with Horner, albeit from a distance, remains a testament to the enduring bonds that form in the high-pressure world of Formula One, illustrating that even amidst change, connections in motorsport can foster resilience and optimism.
