Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has said Max Verstappen still intends to stay with the team for next year despite speculation about a move to Mercedes which would shake up Formula 1.

Christian Horner has said it would be “embarrassing” for Mercedes if his Red Bull team started the 2026 season ahead of them, amid ongoing uncertainty over Max Verstappen’s future.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner may have just dropped the most unexpected name yet in Formula 1’s swirling driver market drama. With Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull still the hottest topic in the paddock, especially as Mercedes continue to circle, Horner was asked directly if he had a “Plan B” in case the reigning champion decides to jump ship.