Jos Verstappen sees Red Bull-Horner 'explosion' warning coming true

Jos Verstappen believes a warning he aired earlier this season regarding Red Bull under the continued leadership of Christian Horner is coming true.

When the furore surrounding Horner was at its peak, and Verstappen was demanding change, the father of three-time F1 champion Max Verstappen said at the time, "It can't go on like this. It [Red Bull] will explode."

Since the comment was made, it has been announced that three senior Red Bull figures will leave the team over the coming months. 

Chief technical officer Adrian Newey will join Aston Martin on March 1; sporting director Jonathan Wheatley is to become the new team principal of Audi in the middle of next year, whilst chief strategy officer Will Courtenay is to join McLaren at some stage in 2026 as its sporting director. 

Courtenay has worked for the Milton Keynes-based outfit for over two decades after joining the organisation when it was known as Jaguar. 

On top of the senior departures, Red Bull has also fallen behind McLaren in the constructors' championship since Verstappen Sr aired his remarks. 

"Yes, this is what I warned about," the 52-year-old told Autosport.com.

"The team then says, 'It doesn't matter. We have someone else [who we can put in that position].' But there are too many people [who decide to leave]. 

"And Max gets asked about it every time and so on. So yes, I think it's just not right what's happening."

Horner has insisted on multiple occasions that Red Bull has the depth of talent within the team to deal with the departures, although Jos appears uncertain.

"He always makes a point!" Jos said with a small smile.