Even after one of the most stunning shake-ups in Formula 1 this year, Max Verstappen still keeps in close contact with Christian Horner — the man who once led Red Bull to glory. But here's where it gets interesting: despite Horner’s controversial departure, their relationship appears unshaken.
When Laurent Mekies stepped in as Red Bull’s new team principal ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, it marked the end of an era. Horner had guided the team for two decades, transforming Red Bull from fresh-faced challengers into an unstoppable champion-making machine. Yet, after a disappointing spell on track, even his long-standing leadership wasn’t enough to keep him at the helm.
So, why did Horner’s reign end so dramatically? Many point to Red Bull’s mid-season slump and the belief that a leadership reset was needed to fix it. Others whisper that the Verstappens — a powerful presence within the team — may have played a quiet role in that decision. Whether that’s true or not, Verstappen’s latest statements have fans speculating about what really went on behind closed doors.
In a candid conversation with PA before the Qatar Grand Prix, Verstappen revealed that his connection with Horner remains strong. “Every race weekend, he messages me — about the race, about life, about everything. We still keep in touch, definitely,” Verstappen said. That insight gives a rare glimpse into a friendship that has survived the kind of professional split that usually ends communication altogether.
And then, the twist: almost immediately after Horner’s exit, Red Bull’s performance rebounded. Verstappen clinched victory in the sprint race at Spa and, a few weeks later, returned to the top step of the podium in Monza. With just two rounds left in the season, he’s back fighting for the championship title — level on points with Oscar Piastri and within striking distance of leader Lando Norris, just 24 points ahead. Not bad for a team many thought was out of contention only a few months ago.
Reflecting on Horner’s departure, Verstappen didn’t shy away from emotion. “It’s important to recognize everything Christian did for this team,” he said. “From our first title in 2021 to the craziness of that final race in Abu Dhabi — those are memories for life.” But he also acknowledged that Red Bull had lost its way. “The car wasn’t working, people were leaving, and there was too much noise,” he admitted. “Then with the team boss change — and us finally understanding the car — it unexpectedly brought calm. People started feeling confident again.”
Verstappen’s reflections show both his loyalty and his pragmatism. He doesn’t deny the turbulence, but he credits the team’s turnaround to a strange mix of chaos and clarity that came after Horner’s exit.
Here’s the part fans can’t agree on: did Red Bull truly need to let go of Horner to find success again, or did the renewed motivation come from somewhere else entirely? Was this victory born out of change — or in spite of it?
What do you think? Did Horner’s departure really save Red Bull’s season, or was Verstappen destined to turn things around no matter what? Share your take in the comments — this debate is far from over.
