Mintzlaff backs Horner's departure, downplays Verstappen's contract clause.

      "It was a well-known fact that there was too much happening within the team."

      Red Bull's CEO, Oliver Mintzlaff, has staunchly defended the decision to part ways with Christian Horner, asserting that the team had to "move forward" while dismissing claims that Max Verstappen has excessive influence within the organization. In an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Mintzlaff emphasized that the choice regarding Horner was not made lightly.

      "We recognized the need for action," Mintzlaff explained. "I’m not merely a manager who hires and fires. Relying on the past is not a viable long-term strategy; it was time for a new chapter. It was challenging, but we did not approach it lightly."

      The German executive acknowledged that the mood within Red Bull Racing had become tense but argued that a renewed focus resulted in immediate improvements on the track. "It was an open secret that there was too much happening within the team," he stated. "In recent months, we saw performance levels rise when everyone was fully concentrated. Max even came close to clinching the title and won more races than anyone else."

      Mintzlaff refrained from engaging with Dr. Helmut Marko’s recent criticisms of Horner, making it clear that those remarks were Marko's personal opinions. "Those comments are Helmut’s responsibility," he said. "I can't speak negatively about Christian; he has been vital to Red Bull. Changes happen in companies, and sometimes they are necessary to invigorate operations."

      In response to ongoing speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s contract and potential performance stipulations, Mintzlaff was clear. "I have no fear of any clauses," he remarked. "What matters most for an athlete is to see the entire team putting forth their best effort. I believe Max appreciates the unity in results and atmosphere."

      Mintzlaff went on to predict a lasting relationship between Red Bull and four-time world champion Max Verstappen. "I feel a tremendous sense of appreciation and loyalty from both sides. I'm certain Max will retire with Red Bull," he asserted. "He isn’t a diva. If he ever stops racing - which I hope isn’t soon - I hope he remains with us in another capacity."

      He also dismissed assertions that Verstappen effectively manages the team. "That’s nonsense," Mintzlaff stated frankly. "He has never made a single request of me. He’s clear about what he wants from the car - and he has the right to be, as he is the world’s best driver. But the ultimate authority lies with me, and that’s the brand we represent."

      Looking ahead to the new regulations, Mintzlaff acknowledged existing uncertainties, particularly regarding the new in-house Red Bull-Ford initiative. "No one knows where we will end up - it could be second or third," he noted. "It involves not just the engine, but also the chassis."

      Nonetheless, he expressed confidence in Red Bull’s engine project, crediting Horner for assembling the program prior to his departure. "I remember Dietrich Mateschitz telling me we’d create our own engine, and I wondered what that meant," Mintzlaff recalled. "Now, it’s nearly complete. Christian deserves praise for identifying the right talent. I hope we can fulfill Dietrich's grand vision."

      Mintzlaff concluded on a positive note, underlining Red Bull’s two-team structure and youth development as they enter a new era. "We will succeed again and write fresh success stories," he stated. "That’s the essence of Red Bull."

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