Source: REUTERS/Leonhard Foeger
[Saba Sports News] Christian Horner’s sudden dismissal from the Red Bull team has caused a huge stir in the F1 community. Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner pointed out a possible hidden truth: this may be the price to pay to retain Max Verstappen. Although the official reason for Horner’s departure has not been disclosed, various signs suggest that it may be linked to pressure from Verstappen’s father.
Over the past year, Horner faced a public backlash due to allegations of misconduct. Although he was ultimately not convicted, his relationships within the team’s upper management have strained. Following this, team design director Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley also left, leading to significant turmoil within the team’s structure.
Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, has publicly criticized Horner multiple times, warning that his continued leadership could lead the team to decline. Reports indicate that the two had another heated argument during the Silverstone weekend. Sources within F1 claim that Verstappen’s camp has even made it clear to Red Bull’s upper management that Verstappen’s decision to stay would depend on a “cleansing” of the team’s leadership.
In response, Steiner stated that from the perspective of team interests, Red Bull is likely to make some strategic compromises, as Verstappen is considered the best driver in the world and deserves the team’s investment.