Red Bull crisis: Horner holds meeting with Verstappen manager

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has met with Max Verstappen's manager face-to-face ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as the Milton Keynes-based outfit's internal crisis continues to overshadow its on-track dominance.

Verstappen picked up where he left off last season to easily win the opening round of the new campaign in Bahrain last weekend as teammate Sergio Perez secured a one-two finish for Red Bull, yet that was not the story of the weekend.

Horner had initially been cleared by the internal investigation launched by Red Bull GmbH following allegations of inappropriate behaviour.

Yet during practice at the Bahrain International Circuit, an anonymous email source delivered alleged evidence to Horner's rival team principals, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and members of F1 media.

Verstappen Sr to miss Saudi Arabia

Whilst Horner has continuously pointed to a united front within Red Bull, comments made by Verstappen's father Jos in the aftermath of the Bahrain Grand Prix, where the Dutchman suggested the team could "explode" if the Briton remains in his role, has further added to the internal crisis.

Suggestions have been made that the three-time world champion could make the switch to Mercedes if Horner should remain in charge, with motorsport advisor Helmut Marko and chief technical officer Adrian Newey also rumoured to make a move.

In the lead-up to F1's return to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, RacingNews365 has learned a 'clear-the-air' meeting has taken place between Horner and Verstappen's manager Raymond Vermeulen, with neither Max nor Jos present.

Horner is expected to remain in charge for the Saudi Arabian event despite the escalation of tensions. Jos Verstappen will not be present as he will be competing in a rally event.