Christian Horner adds further uncertainty to Max Verstappen-George Russell saga

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has failed to verify that Max Verstappen will race for his squad next year.

Verstappen has consistently been mooted with an exit from the Red Bull outfit over the last 12 months - however, the rumours have only intensified in recent weeks.

The Dutchman has been linked with a move to Mercedes for next year when fresh technical regulations will come into play.

Verstappen himself has failed to categorically confirm his position at Red Bull next year, with rumours of performance clauses potentially being in play, allowing him to exit the team before the end of his contract in 2028.

Horner faced the F1 media on Friday at Silverstone, where he was quizzed over Verstappen's future.

When asked by RacingNews365 if he could assert that Verstappen would be in Red Bull colours next year, Horner highlighted it is the team's utmost intention - but could not validate that Verstappen would still be his driver.

“The contracts between the drivers and the team are always going to remain confidential,” he said.

“And with any driver's contract, there is an element of performance mechanism and that exists within Max's contract. 

“The absolute intention is that he will be there and driving for us in 2026. It's inevitable that he's of huge interest to any other team and in the pit lane.”

A transfer to Mercedes would seemingly come at the expense of George Russell, who has not yet been tied down to an extension.

Horner has suggested the current speculation could have stemmed from Russell himself to gauge his position in negotiations.

“I think actually probably George triggered all this speculation, probably trying to leverage his own situation and force clarity, which you can you can understand,” Horner said.

“He's driven a very good season as well this year. But inevitably, there will always be speculation about.

“I think most important thing is the clarity that exists between Max and the team.”