Horner deflected a question to talk about an F1 rival

RED BULL boss Christian Horner has dropped a major hint over the future of Max Verstappen.

Verstappen has been heavily linked with a move away from Red Bull after falling away in the championship standings.

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Christian Horner has given a hint over the future of four-time F1 champion Max VerstappenCredit: Alamy

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Verstappen has been linked with a move to MercedesCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The Dutchman had been eyeing a fifth World Driver’s Championship title in a row at the start of the season, but now sits P3 in the driver standings behind McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.

His gap to the top car is 61 points following a DNF at the Austrian Grand Prix after Kimi Antonelli crashed into the side of him on the opening lap.

Verstappen is well known to have clauses in his contract which means he can trigger an exit if results do not meet expectations – with one clause stating he must be running in at least P3 going into the summer break.

And Red Bull chief Horner has now lifted the lid on the future of the reigning world champion.

Speaking to Sky Italy, he said: “We have a great relationship with Max. We know where we stand within the agreement, which will always remain confidential between him and the team…

“We are just focused on performing. If things stay as they are, 100 per cent he will be with us next year.”

Paddock reports had suggested the 27-year-old was being linked with a stunning move to Mercedes.

George Russell sits nine points behind his rival in the drivers standings, but is out of contract with the Silver Arrows at the end of the season.

And when pressed for clarification on his Verstappen comments, Horner deflected the question by focusing on the situation of the British driver.

He added: “It’s impossible to say 100 per cent.

“Is it clear George Russell will 100 per cent be at Mercedes next year?”

Despite the rumours, Verstappen stormed to pole position on Saturday at the British Grand Prix.

He was just over a tenth quicker than the second-quickest driver Piastri, with Norris, Russell and Lewis Hamilton completing the top five.

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George Russell is out of contract with Mercedes at the end of the seasonCredit: Shutterstock Editorial