Red Bull Nears Horner Exit Amid Verstappen Future Uncertainty

Max Verstappen's future at Red Bull Racing remains uncertain following the recent sacking of team principal Christian Horner amid internal turmoil and performance struggles. While insiders and family members have acknowledged ongoing contract negotiations with Mercedes, Verstappen has previously expressed loyalty to Red Bull, though some speculate that Horner's departure may influence his decision to leave. Former F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone highlighted the technical challenges Red Bull faces with their new power unit and suggested Mercedes could be a more stable option as they have a proven power unit supplier. Gerhard Berger believes that despite Red Bull's current downward spiral and the internal conflicts exacerbated by Horner's sexting scandal, the priority should be stabilizing the team and reintegrating Verstappen, who may stay with Red Bull even after Horner's exit. However, fan sentiment largely doubts Verstappen will remain loyal to Red Bull through his contract, with many expecting him to leave as soon as contractual conditions allow, possibly as early as this year. The situation is further complicated by reports of difficulties in retaining key personnel at Red Bull and tensions involving Verstappen's father, signaling a potentially significant reshaping of the F1 landscape in the near future.