Red Bull Chief Delivers Verstappen Exit Twist as Hamilton Given ‘Last Chance’ Call
In a dramatic twist to Formula 1’s unfolding 2025 saga, Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has cast fresh uncertainty over Max Verstappen’s future with the team, while Sir Lewis Hamilton is reportedly being given a “last chance” by Mercedes to prove he remains a world championship contender.
Speaking to international media ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, Horner hinted that Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull is “not set in stone,” despite the Dutch driver’s contract running through to the end of 2028. The comments come amid swirling rumors of internal tensions within the Red Bull camp and continued speculation linking Verstappen with a sensational move to Mercedes.
“Max is obviously a huge part of this team’s success, and we want him here for the long haul,” Horner said. “But F1 is unpredictable. Nobody can ever say never in this sport. We’re confident in the environment we’ve created for Max, but ultimately, drivers want to be in the best possible position to win. And that’s what we’re constantly striving to deliver.”
Horner’s words will do little to silence the growing buzz around Verstappen’s potential departure. The reigning world champion has remained tight-lipped about his future in recent weeks, even as he continues to dominate the 2025 season with commanding performances. However, behind the scenes, it’s believed Verstappen has grown increasingly frustrated with Red Bull’s political infighting—especially the fallout from earlier conflicts involving team advisors and questions around leadership stability.
At the center of the Mercedes rumors is team principal Toto Wolff, who has openly stated his admiration for Verstappen and admitted that Mercedes would be “foolish not to explore all options” when looking to rebuild after a difficult couple of seasons.
But in a parallel development, Wolff also made headlines this week with his candid comments about Lewis Hamilton, who is in the final year of his Mercedes contract before making his high-profile switch to Ferrari in 2026.
“Lewis is a legend, no question,” Wolff told reporters. “But we also have to be realistic. This season is crucial for him to show he’s still at the peak. It’s a last chance in some ways—to leave Mercedes on a high, and possibly to contend for another title.”
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has struggled to match teammate George Russell’s consistency in the opening races of the 2025 campaign, though his experience and racecraft remain unquestioned. With Ferrari preparing to welcome him next year, Wolff’s comments reflect a sense of urgency and a desire to ensure the partnership ends on a strong note.
“Winning together again would be the perfect farewell,” Wolff added. “But F1 doesn’t hand out fairy tales—you’ve got to fight for them.”
The dual storylines—Verstappen’s uncertain future and Hamilton’s final push with Mercedes—are setting the stage for one of the most compelling seasons in recent memory. Paddock insiders suggest that if Verstappen were to leave Red Bull, Mercedes would be his most likely
