BREAKING NEWS: Christian Horner Confirms Verstappen’s Stunning Exit — “He Won’t Be With Red Bull Next Season”
In a dramatic twist that has shaken the world of Formula 1, Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner has officially confirmed that Max Verstappen will not be part of the team in the 2026 season. Declaring firmly, “My decision is final,” Horner’s announcement has stunned not only Verstappen’s long-time race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase, but the entire F1 community.
Speaking during an urgent media briefing at Red Bull’s Milton Keynes headquarters, Horner announced the shock decision. “After a great deal of thought and internal dialogue, I can now confirm that Max Verstappen won’t be racing for Red Bull Racing next year,” Horner stated. “It’s a tough call, but one I’ve made with conviction. The decision is final.”
The news comes as a huge surprise given Verstappen’s dominance in recent years. The Dutch driver has played a crucial role in Red Bull’s recent success, winning multiple world championships and becoming the face of the team’s modern era. Yet, despite no public signs of unrest, this sudden split suggests deeper issues behind the scenes.
One of the most impacted by the news appears to be Gianpiero “GP” Lambiase, Verstappen’s trusted race engineer and closest partner on the team radio. According to sources inside the paddock, Lambiase was completely caught off guard by the announcement and appeared “visibly shaken.” Their collaboration has long been hailed as one of the most effective duos in the sport.
Reactions across the motorsport world have been immediate and intense. Several drivers and former champions have taken to social media to express their disbelief. Pundits and analysts are now scrambling to understand what led to such a pivotal decision from Red Bull’s leadership.
The team has yet to name Verstappen’s replacement for 2026. However, speculation is already running wild — with potential candidates including top drivers from rival teams and talent within Red Bull’s junior ranks. Horner kept details to a minimum, saying only, “We’ll evaluate all available options to ensure Red Bull stays competitive at the highest level.”
Verstappen’s next move remains uncertain. While neither he nor his management team has released an official statement, sources suggest discussions with other top-tier teams may already be underway. Mercedes, Ferrari, and Aston Martin are believed to be watching the situation closely.
This shocking development marks the end of a legendary chapter in F1 — the partnership between Verstappen and Red Bull that brought the team unprecedented success. As the current season plays out, all attention will now be focused on how this unexpected breakup affects both parties moving forward, and what the future holds for one of the sport’s most dominant forces.
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