Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen thanked on Wednesday evening in an Instagram contribution to the long-standing Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.
“From my first racing to four world championships, we shared incredible success,” wrote Verstappen to a picture that shows him and Horner in a hug.
“Memorable races” were won and “broken countless records,” said Verstappen.
With a “THANKS for everything, Christian” he ended his short but apparently nicely meant farewell message.
Verstappen Manager Raymond Vermeulen had previously struck a different tone. He gave a short statement to the newspaper “de Telegraaf” in which there was nothing to read.
Relationship between Verstappen and Horner crumbles
The relationship between Max Verstappen and Christian Horner was considered unshakable for many years. A first sensitive break occurred in early 2024 when the team boss was investigated after severe allegations of an employee.
The Dutch camp then positioned itself against Horner. Father Jos publicly attacked the British and called for his resignation. In the course of the 2024 season, however, the atmosphere improved again. Above all, because in the end it was possible to move the World Cup title “Super Max”.
However, the team is miles away from this title this year. After 20 years together, those responsible were the only solution.
Video: That means Horner-Aus for Verstappen’s future
According to Paddock rumors, it was also and above all Verstappen, who recently campaigned for a Horner estate. The Dutch is said to have challenged changes in the management structure and linked them to its whereabouts.
However, it has not yet been conclusively clarified whether the Horner-Aus now ensures that the four-time world champion will continue to drive for Red Bull Racing.