Max Verstappen has remarked that the atmosphere in the Formula One paddock has become noticeably calmer now that Christian Horner is no longer at the helm of Red Bull Racing. The Dutch driver explained that the constant undercurrent of tension that existed when Horner was team principal was a source of unease for many, and that a more amicable environment benefits everyone involved. Verstappen, who clinched his first win of the 2024 season – and the 72nd victory of his career – at the Bahrain Grand Prix, has spent his entire championship‑winning tenure at Red Bull under Horner's leadership.
All four of his world titles were secured while Horner was team boss, creating a close association between the two men in the public eye. Since Horner’s exit, speculation has swirled about a possible return to the sport.
He has hinted that he still has "unfinished business" and has described the idea of leading Ferrari as a "dream". Should he decide to re‑enter the fray, he would once again find himself in direct competition with other prominent team principals such as Mercedes' Toto Wolff and McLaren's Zak Brown. In a candid interview with the Press Association, Verstappen said, "To be honest, I like to see people get on. It is not nice when you constantly have tension between people.
Of course, from the outside, people like it, but honestly between the teams, it is better when you have just a friendly relationship. It is not as spicy, but I obviously quite like how things are going at the moment with everyone's behaviour, let's put it like that. It is less stressful.
We are all leading a stressful life and when you can take a bit of stress out at times, it is good." He continued, "He has shown he did a good job. Of course, people spread a lot of rumours and I don't know how much of that is true.
I don't want to sound rude, but it is also not my problem or concern. He wants to come back and if there is a good opportunity I am sure he will but I don't know where that is going to be." Verstappen's comments highlight a pragmatic view of the sport: while he respects Horner's achievements, his focus remains squarely on performance and winning. This mindset is also evident in recent contract negotiations. The Dutch champion recently signed a new four‑year extension with Red Bull, after reportedly entertaining discussions with other teams, including McLaren.
When asked whether a move to Ferrari might ever tempt him, Verstappen replied, "I only want to win. I am not a nostalgic type.
Do I have a lot of respect for the [Ferrari] brand? Absolutely. But if that means you then commit yourself, and you are driving P5 or P6, what's the point?
I am very performance‑driven, and I have won a lot with this team already. It is a second family at Red Bull, and the challenge of rebuilding is what's driving me." Verstappen also reflected on the longevity of a Formula 1 career. While veteran Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin has secured a contract that will keep him in the sport beyond his 46th birthday, Verstappen, now 29, does not see himself racing for decades. "Staying here until then would mean I have dedicated more than half of my life to Formula 1, and that is probably a bit too much," he said.
"I have extended for a few more years, and then I will look again and say to myself, 'can I commit 100 per cent?' If not, or there are other fun things around that deserves more time, then maybe I don't continue. I also want to spend more time at home and see the kids growing up." The upcoming Singapore Grand Prix will host the final Sprint weekend of the season, with live coverage set to begin on Sky Sports F1 at 10:30 am on Friday. Fans can stream the action via NOW without a long‑term contract, ensuring easy access to the high‑octane drama that defines the sport. Overall, Verstappen's observations suggest that a reduction in interpersonal friction can have a tangible impact on the mental well‑being of drivers and team members alike.
By fostering a more collegial atmosphere, the sport may become a little less "spicy" but arguably more sustainable for those who devote their lives to it. This shift could also influence future negotiations, driver movements, and the strategic direction of teams as they balance the pursuit of glory with the human need for a healthier, less stressful working environment.