Source:REUTERS/HAMAD I MOHAMMED
[Saba Sports News] In the latest season trailer of “Drive to Survive,” George Russell speculates that Max Verstappen and his father played a key role in the power struggle at Red Bull, suggesting that the Verstappen camp had a decisive impact on Christian Horner’s departure. Russell stated in the show that the Verstappens are very skilled at manipulating situations. For some unknown reason, they simply do not like Horner and are determined to push him out. He even questioned whether this is all an act to pressure Red Bull, suggesting that unless Horner leaves, Verstappen will not stay with the team. Russell’s comments reignited long-standing speculation in the paddock. However, in the same episode, Horner directly denied this claim, clearly stating that Verstappen’s departure had nothing to do with him and that he does not believe the Verstappens were scheming behind the scenes. He indicated that this decision was made by Red Bull Group CEO Oliver Mintzlaff.
In my opinion, Russell’s statement is personal speculation; while it has sparked discussion in the paddock, it lacks solid evidence and contradicts Horner’s public statements. Clearly, Horner’s departure is more a result of the power struggle within Red Bull Group.