BREAKING: Max Verstappen breaks silence after Christian Horner sacked by Red Bull in F1 bombshell

Max Verstappen has broken his silence after Red Bull sacked boss Christian Horner. A statement on Wednesday morning confirmed that Horner, 51, had left his role as CEO and team principal.

Mirror Sport understands that Horner was sacked, having enjoyed 20 years in the role. Horner was the longest-serving team principal in Formula 1, leading Red Bull to eight Drivers' Championships and six Constructors' titles.

Four of those drivers titles belong to Verstappen, who Horner signed for Red Bull ahead of the 2017 season. The Dutchman has now posted a message on social media, thanking Horner for helping him become a dominant force in F1.

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"From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes," Verstappen wrote. "Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"

Members of the paddock have speculated that Horner's exit has been brewing since he was accused of inappropriate behaviour by a female colleague in February 2024, allegations he denied. Red Bull chiefs launched an investigation, including hiring an external KC who interviewed him for hours, and they later cleared him of any wrongdoing.

Despite Verstappen winning his fourth drivers' title in a row last year, Red Bull's competitors had made up significant ground. McLaren ended their stronghold on the Constructors' title which prompted Horner to axe Verstappen's team-mate, Sergio Perez.

His replacement, Liam Lawson, was given just two race weekends in 2025, failing to score a single point. Their fortunes have barely improved with Yuki Tsunoda in the car, putting additional pressure on Verstappen to deliver.

The 27-year-old has won two Grands Prix this season but has complained about the state of Red Bull's car. Verstappen has been heavily linked a move to rival team Mercedes in 2026.

His future remains in the spotlight after Horner's departure. In a statement, Red Bull said: "After 20 years with the Team, Christian Horner departs Oracle Red Bull Racing as Team Principal and CEO. We thank him for his tireless and exceptional work.

"He has been instrumental in building this Team into one of the most successful in F1, with eight Drivers' Championships and six Constructors' Championships. Thank you for everything Christian, you will forever remain an important part of our team's history."

Laurent Mekies, team principal with sister team Racing Bulls, will replace Horner. The next Grand Prix takes place in Spa, Belgium on Sunday, July 26.