The summer break is getting closer in Formula 1, and rumors are going well concerning next season, which will see the introduction of a new technical regulations. The main of them concerns the defending world champion Max Verstappen, who seems to be offset to keep his crown (61pts behind Oscar Piastri) and who could join Mercedes, the most advanced stable in tests for next season, according to information from Sky Italia. While the first free tests of the Grand Prix of Great Britain took place this Friday, the boss of the Red Bull team, Christian Horner, was obviously questioned on the subject, and it is certain: Max Verstappen will not leave.
“There are obviously many people who talk about it, but what is most important is the relationship between the pilot and the team, and there is obviously an agreement that also defines this. Everyone knows very well where we are. Max has been at Red Bull since the start of his career, he had all his successes at the wheel of the Red Bull Racing. He played an important role in our team and has great confidence in herself and in his collaborators. Even if there will always be speculation and noise, I think we are all quite comfortable with our current situation. We cannot control the speech of others, but internally, we know where we are. Max has a contract until 2028. He clearly indicated that he wanted to end his career in a Red Bull, from start to finish. I find it very special and unique for him. This is what we focus: ignore the noise and focus on the areas where we know that we must progress and how to get there. »»
The Russell case at the speculation center
According to Christian Horner, rumors around the possible signature of Max Verstappen at Mercedes came from the fact that George Russell (4th in the championship) has still not extended his contract with the German stable.
“Max’s intention is that he is there to pilot for us in 2026. It is inevitable that he aroused enormous interest in any other team in the way of the stands, and I think that in fact, George has probably triggered all these speculations, probably trying to take advantage of his own situation and force clarity, which you can understand because he has also achieved a very good season this year. But inevitably, there will always be speculation about it. I think the most important is the clarity between Max and the team, and it’s very clear. »A sufficient statement to silence rumors? Not sure…
