Max Verstappen has publicly addressed the recent changes at Red Bull Racing, stating that Christian Horner's departure as team principal does not affect his decision regarding his future with the team. Horner was dismissed three days after the British Grand Prix and has been replaced by Laurent Mekies, formerly of Racing Bulls.

Verstappen, speaking for the first time about the changes, emphasized, "I don't think it will matter at all for my decision in the future. The only thing that matters is that we work on the car and make it as fast as we can make it, really." The four-time world champion also hinted at his intention to stay with Red Bull beyond the current season.

Despite being contracted until 2028, Verstappen has clauses in his contract that could allow him to leave under specific circumstances. This has led to speculation about a potential move to Mercedes, especially with the introduction of new chassis and engine rules in 2026. However, Verstappen remains focused on Red Bull's performance, stating, "The last one and a half years have not been what we want to be. Now we try to be more competitive this year a little bit, but for sure also with the new regulations."

Red Bull has faced challenges in maintaining their competitive edge since the middle of last season. Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive world title in 2024 but only won twice in the final 13 races. Currently, he is third in the championship, 69 points behind leader Oscar Piastri of McLaren, with only two wins in 12 grands prix. Red Bull is also fourth in the constructors' championship, trailing McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes.

When questioned about the possibility of not driving for Red Bull next year, Verstappen responded philosophically, "There's also a possibility I don't wake up tomorrow. So then there is no driving at all. So, life is unpredictable. But in general, I'm very happy where I'm at - and I hope. That was still the target that was set out when we signed the new deal, you know, that I would drive until the end of my career."

Regarding Horner's departure, Verstappen added, "Management decided they wanted to steer the ship in a different direction, probably. And then everyone else, of course, has to anyway agree to that and look forward. And I am looking forward. Of course, I had already quite a few meetings with Laurent as well. You know, the last two weeks have been quite intense for him to jump in. But, yeah, I'm equally also excited for the team now moving forward because that's what we have to do. You know, looking back, it doesn't make sense. It's not going to make you faster."

Verstappen also addressed the tension between Horner and his father, Jos Verstappen, which was exacerbated by allegations of sexual harassment and coercive behavior against Horner. Although two internal Red Bull investigations dismissed the allegations, the situation remains unresolved. Verstappen commented, "People can have a difference of opinion now and then, and I actually expect that to happen because if everyone always agrees there is a problem. You need to have a difference of opinion. And, yeah, that's now something that we work with in a different direction."

As the 2025 Formula 1 season progresses, all eyes will be on Verstappen and Red Bull to see if they can regain their dominant form and challenge for the championship once again.