Max Verstappen’s manager has expressed that it is up to Red Bull to publicise the reasons behind the decision to sack Christian Horner as the team’s Formula 1 boss.
Red Bull has announced that Horner, who had been at the helm since 2005, has departed his role, with Laurent Mekies succeeding him as the organisation’s new CEO.
Horner’s position as Red Bull Team Principal and CEO had been scrutinised since an investigation was opened into allegations a colleague made against him in 2024.
But while he was acquitted, Red Bull’s dwindling results, coupled with several senior individuals electing to leave, have continued to put pressure on Horner’s standing.
Horner had pledged his commitment to Red Bull as late as last month amid reports linking him with Ferrari, but the higher-ups have decided that a change is required.
His dismissal comes amid the admission earlier this month that Verstappen’s entourage has had renewed contact with Mercedes about a possible move to the team.
Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, has been embroiled in a public quarrel with Horner that started when he declared that Red Bull would be “torn apart” unless he resigned.
However, Raymond Vermeulen would not be drawn on the reasoning that the Verstappen camp has been given, citing that the onus is on Red Bull to reveal the details.
“We have been informed in advance by Red Bull’s management that this decision has been taken,” Vermeulen said via De Telegraaf.
“It is up to Red Bull to give a further explanation, as to the rationale.”
Verstappen wants more competitive Red Bull
Vermeulen contended that Verstappen’s attention remains focused on Red Bull’s on-track competitiveness, which has continued to decline since a slump last season.
“We continue to look at the sporting side and are looking for more performance so that we can return to the top. In that respect, nothing will change,” he insisted.
Verstappen, who is contracted to Red Bull until 2028, appears all but certain to relinquish his hold on the Drivers’ title as he has slipped 69 points behind Oscar Piastri.
“We have a contract at Red Bull and are committed, as we have been for 11 years,” Vermeulen added via Formule1.nl.
“Above all, we now want the performance to return. And quickly, too.
“Max wants to get the best out of the material he has at his disposal, but we also realise ourselves that the championship is no longer in the cards.”
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