Christian Horner finds himself in the middle of a storm as doubts remain about his leadership at Red Bull Racing. The situation reached a boiling point when Jos Verstappen, father of star driver Max Verstappen, publicly called for Horner’s removal, expressing concern that the team could implode from within. Verstappen Sr. emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode.” This statement comes despite Red Bull’s attempts to downplay any internal strife, asserting that the team remains united and focused on racing. However, F1 insider Joe Saward has recently suggested that the relationship between the Verstappen family and Horner has completely broken down.

Following a strong start to the 2024 season with consecutive 1-2 finishes in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, tensions behind the scenes have escalated dramatically, overshadowing the team’s on-track success. Following the statement made by Jos, Max Verstappen spoke out in defense of his father, stating that it was “not good for the team.”

The situation took a turn for the worse when the position of Helmut Marko within the team came into question during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. In the recent episode of the ‘Missed Apex Formula 1 podcast,’ Saward spoke about the deteriorating relationship between the Verstappens and Horner that could lead to the eventual fallout between the two parties. He said, “I was absolutely amazed when Jos Verstappen said Horner should have left. At that point, Max didn’t have many choices because he had to agree with his father or not.”

“You can’t just sit there and say nothing. The rumor came at that point in Jeddah that Marko would be turned away and at that point, Max said, ‘Well, if it happens I’m not sure I’ll stay here’. Max Verstappen at that point came out and basically ruined his dealings with Horner on his own. I don’t see how he and Christian can move on. They may come later this year, but I can’t see how they will go on in the long run because the trust between Horner and the Verstappen family has disappeared,“ the British journalist added.

If the situation spirals out of hand to the point that Max Verstappen has to look elsewhere on the grid, Red Bull will find itself in a situation similar to Mercedes.

Red Bull may need to start looking for a replacement for Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen possibly leaving Red Bull Racing has gone from being an unimaginable idea to something that’s not entirely out of the question. This shift comes after team principal Christian Horner hinted that Verstappen’s future with Red Bull might not be as secure as previously thought. Verstappen himself mentioned that if Helmut Marko, a key figure in the team, were to leave, it could complicate his own future with the team.

If there’s even a slight chance that Verstappen might leave, Red Bull is likely already considering backup plans. But who could they turn to if Verstappen does decide to move on? One option is Fernando Alonso, who is currently the only world champion without a race seat for 2025. Alonso has expressed his desire to continue racing, provided he has a competitive car. Joining Red Bull could be an attractive prospect for him, even on a short-term contract, as it would allow him to compete in a race-winning car once again.

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Another potential candidate is Carlos Sainz, who has shown championship-winning potential in the past. While Sainz may not be at the same level as Alonso, he offers flexibility for Red Bull’s future lineup. Being the ‘smooth operator’ he is and the ability to qualify well makes him a strong contender for a seat at Red Bull.

Max Verstappen’s “Bed of Roses” will soon be shattered, declares F1 Legend

What are your thoughts on Verstappen’s future with Red Bull Racing? Share your insights in the comments down below.