Toto Wolff has denied that his public courting of Max Verstappen played a role in the sacking of Christian Horner, insisting that there was ‘much more in the background’ that led to the 51-year-old’s dismissal. The long-serving Red Bull boss was relieved of his duties ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix.
When Red Bull confirmed Horner’s exit, they made no mention of a reason for the decision. Since then, reports have alleged that a number of factors contributed to his departure, but chief among them were fears regarding the future of star driver Verstappen, who was heavily linked with a move to Mercedes. The team principal’s tense relations with the Dutchman’s entourage also reportedly worked against the long-serving boss.
Ahead of the sprint shootout at the Belgian Grand Prix, Wolff was asked by Sky Sports F1 reporter Martin Brundle whether or not his public chase for Verstappen caused his long-time rival’s sacking. “No,” he replied emphatically.
“There is much more in the background that we probably don’t know with Red Bull. Looking after drivers, in my position as team principal of Mercedes, I need to explore what Max is going to do in the next few years, not only next year.”
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