- Christian Horner, removed as Red Bull team principal last year after two decades, has publicly denied Max Verstappen's involvement in his departure.
- Horner attributes his removal to Red Bull chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff and adviser Helmut Marko, suggesting it stemmed from a perception of him having “too much control” after the Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz’s death.
- He expressed a profound sense of loss and hurt over the sudden nature of his exit, stating he didn't get a chance to say a proper goodbye.
- Horner's departure followed allegations of misconduct towards an employee, which were dismissed after two separate investigations commissioned by Red Bull.
- Max Verstappen committed to staying with Red Bull beyond 2026 weeks after Laurent Mekies took over as team principal.
IN FULL