Horner drops big Mercedes F1 2026 clue in latest Max V… read more
Christian Horner has ignited fresh speculation in the Formula 1 paddock after making a pointed remark about Mercedes’ future engine project while reaffirming his commitment to keeping Max Verstappen at Red Bull. As the 2026 engine regulation changes loom large over the sport, Horner claimed it would be “embarrassing” for Mercedes if Red Bull Powertrains — still a relative newcomer in the engine manufacturing space — outperformed the German giants. This statement comes amidst growing rumors linking Verstappen with a possible switch to Mercedes, despite the Dutchman being under contract with Red Bull until the end of the 2028 season.
Horner’s remarks reflect not only the intense competition on the track but also the political maneuvering that often occurs behind the scenes in Formula 1. Speaking candidly, the Red Bull Team Principal emphasized his belief that Red Bull is still the best place for Verstappen, both competitively and structurally, as the sport heads into a new era of technical regulations. He stressed the team’s long-term vision and the strength of their development program, especially with Red Bull Powertrains continuing to ramp up its capabilities ahead of 2026, when the new engine rules — which will see a greater emphasis on electrification and sustainable fuels — come into effect.
“Max is the cornerstone of our team,” Horner said, highlighting Verstappen’s integral role in Red Bull’s recent dominance in the sport. “We are building for the future, and Max is a huge part of that. It would be a strange decision for him to leave a team that is so centered around him.” While Horner did not deny the ongoing speculation, he clearly aimed to project confidence and stability, despite the growing threat from rival teams, particularly Mercedes, who are expected to undergo a major transformation in 2026.
Adding fuel to the speculation, it was revealed last year — including by outlets such as PlanetF1.com — that Verstappen’s current deal includes a “performance clause,” a mechanism that would allow him to leave the team early under specific circumstances. Although the full details remain confidential, it is widely believed that Verstappen could activate this clause if he is ranked lower than fourth in the Drivers’ Championship after the Hungarian Grand Prix, which takes place next month and marks the final race before the summer break. This clause has become a focal point of speculation, especially with Red Bull’s 2025 campaign showing signs of vulnerability due to internal struggles and increased competition from McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ Team Principal, has openly expressed admiration for Verstappen and has not dismissed the idea of bringing the three-time world champion to Brackley. With Lewis Hamilton now at Ferrari and Mercedes in a rebuilding phase, the prospect of pairing Verstappen with their future engine project has become a tantalizing narrative. However, Horner’s recent comments may be interpreted as both a warning and a challenge. By suggesting it would be humiliating for Mercedes to be outgunned by Red Bull Powertrains in 2026, he is effectively raising the stakes in this high-speed chess match.
The broader context here involves more than just Verstappen’s future. It touches on the identity and direction of the top teams as they prepare for the seismic technical shift in 2026. Red Bull’s decision to develop its own power unit marks a bold departure from its previous reliance on external suppliers like Renault and Honda. For Horner and Red Bull, producing a competitive engine from scratch is not just a technical challenge but a statement of intent — one that could define the team’s legacy in the sport.
As the summer break approaches, all eyes will be on Verstappen’s position in the standings. If he finishes the Hungarian Grand Prix outside the top four, the exit clause may become a real and immediate threat to Red Bull’s stability. Horner’s plea for Verstappen to remain can thus be seen as both strategic and emotional — a bid to retain the driver who has defined their recent success amid a rapidly shifting F1 landscape.
