Verstappen remains calm as Red Bull undergoes a reset with Mekies.

      "It’s their prerogative to act as they please."

      Max Verstappen has stated that Christian Horner’s unexpected dismissal will not influence his future, emphasizing that Red Bull needs to concentrate on performance and "looking forward" with the new team manager, Laurent Mekies. Speaking at Spa-Francorchamps on Thursday, Verstappen commented on the long-anticipated power struggle that led to Horner’s removal, a decision reportedly instigated by Red Bull’s Austrian leadership along with significant figures supportive of Verstappen, like Helmut Marko and his father, Jos Verstappen.

      "In Formula 1, changes happen like in football," Marko informed Kleine Zeitung. "If results aren't achieved, the coach simply has to be replaced."

      Verstappen addressed a large number of journalists at Spa, saying, "If you reflect on more than 20 years of Red Bull Racing, we've experienced many successful years with impressive outcomes. Naturally, there have been periods when things didn’t go as well, and I believe the last year and a half haven't matched our expectations. Management has determined that a shift in direction is necessary, and everyone must comply and look ahead. I am looking forward."

      He revealed that he learned of Horner’s dismissal "maybe half a day in advance" from shareholders Mark Mateschitz and Chalerm Yoovidhya. "They manage the team, and I'm the driver. It’s their right to make the decisions they feel are necessary," he stated.

      When questioned if Horner’s exit would affect his commitment to the team, Verstappen replied: "It doesn’t alter what I am doing. From my perspective, there’s nothing to mention about my future. I’m satisfied with my current position." He added: "There's a chance I might not wake up tomorrow. Life can be unpredictable. Overall, I am content with where I am. My goal has always been to conclude my career here."

      However, Verstappen has not clarified his plans beyond 2025 even internally, and according to De Telegraaf, an exit clause tied to championship standings remains effective until the summer break. When directly asked about reports suggesting a link to Mercedes, Verstappen downplayed the notion, shrugging it off, including his alleged meeting with Toto Wolff in Sardinia. "I was on holiday with friends and family. If other people happen to be there simultaneously, that’s just how it goes," commented the four-time world champion.

      Regarding the evident tension between Horner and his father Jos, Verstappen acknowledged, "Arguments like that are not pleasant and unnecessary. However, individuals can hold different viewpoints - and if everyone is in agreement, that indicates an issue." Despite the rumors, Verstappen insists that his relationship with Horner remains strong. "I’ve spoken with Christian. I even talked to him today," said Verstappen. "That relationship will never change. We’ve been through so much together... From my standpoint, the team feels like a second family, with Christian included in that."

      Verstappen also expressed his admiration for Mekies, who officially takes charge at Spa: "I like Laurent. He’s a nice and very intelligent person. The past two weeks have been quite intense for him, but he’s exceptionally driven. You can see the passion within him."

      Marko, speaking to Kleine Zeitung, supported the leadership change. "The transition has gone very smoothly. Laurent knows people and connects well with them. Hopefully, this will yield positive outcomes," he stated, dismissing rumors of internal resignations. "Mekies has already made some adjustments in the simulator preparations. He is focusing more on racing and is less involved in other areas. His responsibilities as team principal have been scaled down compared to Horner’s."

      Mekies himself stated to F1.com that the team remains fully aligned with Verstappen. "Red Bull is extremely committed to Max," he expressed. "He is at the center of our project, and we need his talent on the racetrack. The best way to demonstrate that commitment is to provide him with the best car possible."

      This weekend, Red Bull has introduced a new front wing at Spa, part of what Marko referred to as a crucial update to "close the gap" to competitors. "It’s also one of Max’s favorite tracks, where his exceptional talent shines," Marko added. "We aspire to be competitive with the leading teams."

      Even Lewis Hamilton commented on Horner’s departure, describing it as "remarkable what he achieved with the team" and acknowledging their lengthy association. "I wouldn’t say we connected right away," Hamilton reflected on an early meeting in 2005. "But he undoubtedly managed the organization with skill and talent. I wish him all the best."

      As for Verstappen, he remains focused but noncommittal. "We just need to keep working and achieve performance on the track," he stated