F1 News Today: Verstappen absence revealed as Red Bull chief backs shock driver swap following….read more
F1 News Today: Verstappen absence revealed as Red Bull chief backs shock driver swap following….read more
Red Bull Racing is facing fresh uncertainty as star driver Max Verstappen was noticeably absent from a major team meeting held at the Milton Keynes headquarters. The meeting, spearheaded by team principal Christian Horner, was aimed at addressing the squad’s disappointing start to the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Verstappen, widely considered Red Bull’s best chance for championship glory, was expected to be a central figure in discussions around improving the team’s performance. However, his absence has intensified ongoing speculation about unrest behind the scenes, following months of mounting tension between key figures within the team.
Adding to the intrigue, one of Red Bull’s top executives has publicly backed the idea of a shock driver swap. The move is seen as a bold step to inject new energy into the outfit as it struggles to maintain its dominance. While no names have been confirmed, the suggestion of a potential lineup change signals that Red Bull’s management is prepared to take drastic measures to turn their season around.
Sources close to the team indicate that Verstappen’s absence was not officially explained, but it comes at a time when relationships within the organization are reportedly strained. Christian Horner, who recently overcame internal controversies to remain in charge, has been working to reassert his leadership, even as doubts linger among certain factions of the team.
Meanwhile, Verstappen’s future at Red Bull is increasingly under the microscope. Although he is contracted to the team until 2028, there are whispers that specific performance-related clauses could offer him a way out if Red Bull fails to deliver a competitive car. The early stages of the 2025 campaign have seen Red Bull fall behind key rivals, leaving Verstappen frustrated with the car’s inconsistent handling and lack of outright pace.
The executive backing the driver swap emphasized the need for Red Bull to stay agile and proactive. “No one is bigger than the team,” he reportedly told insiders, hinting that even Verstappen’s position could be reconsidered if tensions escalate or results fail to improve.
Despite the growing noise, Christian Horner remains publicly committed to keeping Verstappen at Red Bull. He has repeatedly praised the Dutchman’s talent and insisted that the team is fully focused on delivering a car capable of winning championships again. However, Horner’s recent comments about the availability of other top drivers suggest that Red Bull is preparing contingency plans, should Verstappen opt to explore his options elsewhere.
As the season progresses, Red Bull faces a critical crossroads. Resolving internal conflicts and improving on-track performance will be essential if they are to retain both their star driver and their reputation as Formula 1’s dominant force.
