In the realm of Verstappen’s agreement associated with Dr. Helmut Marko, Horner has denied the existence of a similar provision linked to Newey.
Christian Horner has firmly rejected any suggestion of a clause in Max Verstappen’s Red Bull contract concerning Adrian Newey.
The upcoming departure of the team’s chief technical officer in early 2025 has sparked fresh speculation within the F1 paddock regarding Verstappen’s future, despite his current contract running until the end of 2028.
While there is a known break clause in Verstappen’s agreement related to Dr. Helmut Marko, Horner has denied the presence of a similar provision associated with Newey.
“Max’s contract will remain confidential, but there are no clauses that connect Adrian [Newey] to Max [Verstappen] in any way,” stated the Red Bull team principal in an interview with Sky Sports F1.
“They have maintained a strong relationship over the years, as have our previous drivers.
“However, Max understands the intentional planning behind this transition; it’s not impulsive.
“The framework remains unchanged with Adrian’s reduced involvement.”
The uncertainty surrounding Newey’s departure, along with existing rumors about internal team dynamics at Red Bull, has reportedly left Verstappen’s camp unsure about his loyalty to the Milton Keynes-based squad.
Speculation about Verstappen’s future arose early in the season amidst internal power struggles at Red Bull, a situation believed to have influenced Newey’s resignation.
Past suggestions indicated tensions between Verstappen’s management, including his father Jos, and Horner.
The turbulence stemming from now-dismissed accusations against Horner has fueled such speculation.
Recent weeks have seen a surge in rumors related to Verstappen, with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff seemingly adding fuel to the fire of discontent.
The announcement of Newey’s upcoming departure has further intensified the situation, leading to recent reports of a rumored €150 million deal being offered to the Dutch driver.
Horner responded sarcastically to the latest speculations, stating, “You report those rumors every week, yet he remains here.”
“Max is satisfied within the team; he’s surrounded by an exceptional group of engineers and has an outstanding car – the leading car on the grid.
“He’s delivering the best performance of his career.”
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“It’s not about contracts; it’s about satisfaction, a feeling shared by any driver.
“He possesses that satisfaction, that harmony around him.
“What you witness is a driver thriving in that environment.”