Yuki Tsunoda completed the latest race as Formula One teams continue to navigate a shifting landscape marked by personnel changes and uncertain futures. Christian Horner, who concluded his 405th and final appearance at Silverstone just a week prior, was officially relieved of his duties the following Tuesday. The announcement came via press release the next morning, closing a significant chapter for the Red Bull principal. Horner exited with a reported £80 million severance package but acknowledged a personal sense of loss. He remains intent on returning to Formula One in some capacity, with discussions linking him to Ferrari, Alpine—where he expressed interest in acquiring a 24 percent stake—and Aston Martin. Horner emphasized he is waiting for the appropriate opportunity, seeking either a share in team ownership or full control over racing operations, as might be possible at Ferrari.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s future in the sport remains uncertain amid Red Bull’s decline and ongoing regulatory changes. The reigning champion’s contract extends through 2028, but speculation surrounds whether he will run the full term, activate a release clause, or potentially leave Formula One altogether, partly due to dissatisfaction with new technical regulations blending combustion and electric power units. According to sources, a move to Mercedes appears unlikely, as the Silver Arrows seem committed to their current lineup with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. However, dialogue has reportedly occurred between Verstappen and McLaren, and Ferrari’s continued strong performance could offer an alternative path. Verstappen is reportedly weighing his options, considering which teams best fit the evolving technical landscape.
On track, Verstappen ranked fourth fastest during recent practice sessions, trailing Antonelli and the two McLaren drivers. Lewis Hamilton, fresh off a victory in Spain two weeks earlier, posted a somewhat disappointing fifth place, while Russell, currently 50 points behind Antonelli in the standings, managed only sixth fastest.
Verstappen’s 2026 campaign has been challenging. Under new Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies, who faces the task of stabilizing a workforce affected by recent departures, Verstappen sits seventh in the drivers’ championship standings, 60 points behind second-ranked Hamilton, and has achieved just one podium finish in seven races. This downturn is seen by some as a continuation of difficulties that began last year following significant upheavals within the team’s leadership in Austria.