Christian Horner shuts down Mercedes rumours about Max Verstappen
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Red Bull's Christian Horner has shut down rumours of Max Verstappen joining Mercedes in 2025, ending speculation about the three-time world champion's future.
Despite the buzz following Lewis Hamilton's confirmed move to Ferrari, Horner was adamant that Verstappen remains committed to Red Bull.
Toto Wolff, the Mercedes boss, had recently reignited interest in Verstappen, reflecting on the missed opportunity to sign the Dutch driver nearly a decade ago.
The rumours gained momentum amid reports of a disagreement between Horner and Verstappen's father, Jos, and the upcoming 2026 power unit regulations only added fuel to the fire.
Concerns had arisen regarding Red Bull's ability to compete with their self-developed power units against Mercedes, known for their impressive engine performance.
However, Horner made it clear that Verstappen's contract with Red Bull, which runs until the end of 2028, remains intact.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Horner stated, "The situation is as we've been stating all the way through the year, we know what our agreement is with Max, Max knows what his agreement is with us.
"He's certainly not available to Mercedes for 2025, he never was."
As Mercedes are likely to promote their young talent, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Horner's comments have effectively quashed any hopes of seeing Verstappen in a Mercedes seat.
The focus now shifts to the next race, the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort, where Verstappen will continue his title defence with Red Bull.
