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Max Verstappen Pays Emotional Tribute to Christian Horner After Red Bull Sacking

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Jul 9, 2025 12:30 PM ET

Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen sent a message to now former boss Christian Horner upon the latter's firing from Red Bull Racing.

Amid a tumultuous 2025 season in which Verstappen sits third on the drivers' standings (165 points) with a slower car than the dominant McLaren, carrying the team while Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda combined for only five points so far, Horner was released on Wednesday.

Horner and Verstappen were part of the crew, which included aerodynamicist Adrian Newey (now with Aston Martin) and Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley (now with Sauber), that helped the Dutch driver win four consecutive championships.

The details behind the decision to fire Horner remain unknown, but reactions from the F1 world didn't take long to arrive.

Upon learning the news, Verstappen took to Instagram to pen a farewell message to his old boss. He thanked Horner for all the memories they created during the journey that started in 2016 when Verstappen replaced Daniil Kvyat ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix.

"From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Max Verstappen (@maxverstappen1)

A lot has been said about Verstappen's relationship with Horner. Amid visible struggles, the driver's team wasn't happy with the former team principal. Jos Verstappen, more specifically, was reportedly frustrated by Horner's leadership.

Martin Brundle explained that Horner wasn't given a specific reason for why he was fired, leading to more speculation from fans.

Shortly after his firing, Horner has been linked with a move to a different team. Going through another tough season and with the competition starting a new era in 2026, perhaps Ferrari will take a look at Horner's availability.

As for Verstappen, this exit could put an end to all the Mercedes rumors.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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