Signal to Verstappen?

Horner: “Will not force anyone to stay”

Christian Horner (left) in conversation with Max Verstappen on the sidelines of the race weekend in Saudi Arabia.(Bild: ASSOCIATED PRESS)

The beleaguered Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has spoken clearly to employees who are willing to change jobs. You can't force anyone to do anything, said the Briton. A message to Max Verstappen and co. The 50-year-old is under a lot of pressure himself.

It's like everything in life, emphasizes Horner when asked about persistent rumours of Max Verstappen and other team members changing jobs. "You can't force someone to do something just because there's a piece of paper. If someone doesn't want to be in this team, then we won't force anyone to be here against their will," the Briton goes on the offensive.

Words that should probably be understood above all as a clear message to world champion Verstappen. The Dutchman has a contract with Red Bull until 2028, but he and his father Jos have often flirted with the idea of leaving in the wake of the Horner case - probably also to increase the pressure on the team boss.

Horner sees no tensions
When asked about his driver, however, Horner also emphasizes that there is no reason to doubt his attitude. After his victory in Saudi Arabia, the 26-year-old added fuel to the fire and explained that he does not have to drive for Red Bull at any price. Mercedes, in particular, is seen as a possible target for the Dutchman.

Staying with Helmut Marko (left) is essential for Verstappen(Bild: APA/AFP/JOHN THYS)

Helmut Marko is an important factor in his decision to stay. After a crisis meeting, the Red Bull management confirmed that they would continue to work with Marko. Internally, however, there seems to be a clear rift in the team. Horner, however, is trying to calm things down: "Everything is absolutely fine with Max. There is no tension, there is no stress."

Title chances as a factor
The Briton also makes it clear that his statements about transfer rumors are not explicitly aimed at Verstappen. "It doesn't matter whether it's someone who operates our machines, a designer or someone in a support role in the company," says Horner. 

The controversial team boss is also relaxed: "I'm sure everyone in the paddock would like to have Max," says Horner. "But as Toto said, the best drivers always want to be in the best cars." And the good title chances at Red Bull are probably the most important factor for Verstappen staying.