Christian Horner evaluates strategic shifts for Red Bull, considering key driver changes post-Singapore Grand Prix.
Christian Horner stated it would be “foolish” not to consider signing George Russell once his contract with Mercedes F1 expires next year, also hinting that the Singapore Grand Prix might indeed be Daniel Ricciardo’s last race in Formula 1.
Speaking in Singapore after a pivotal qualifying session in which Ricciardo was eliminated in Q1, Red Bull team boss Horner did little to instill confidence in Ricciardo about his future in the RB F1 cockpit.
“I’m not going to delve into the specifics of driver contracts,” Horner said when asked whether Red Bull had a contractual obligation to give a seat to Lawson before the year’s end.
“There’s confidentiality between the company and individuals. Liam’s work for us last year in the RB F1 was very impressive. We previously chose experience because Daniel was our backup in case Sergio [Perez] had to step away.”
“Daniel has had a reasonable season, but it hasn’t been a standout year. The question is how good Liam is, and sometimes tough decisions need to be made to get those answers.”
“We will sit down with all the options available to us during the next three-week break.”
When asked if Singapore could change things, Horner admits it likely will not and considers the broader Red Bull Racing / RB F1 setup.
“It presents a much broader picture within the entire driver carousel as to what the future might look like.”
“We have afforded significant opportunities to many young talents, but the Red Bull system demands results and we require performance.”
“Max is delivering, Checo hasn’t measured up this year; last year he performed adequately to finish second in the championship and help secure the constructors’ title.”
“We must look further afield. We have Liam Lawson on the sidelines. We’re not entirely certain… looking at individuals like [Franco] Colapinto, [Ollie] Bearman, and [Kimi] Antonelli. Is he at that level? Only time will tell.”
“We have Isack Hadjar in Formula 2 who, until recently, was leading that championship. We have a highly exciting young talent in Formula 3, Arvid Lindblad, who particularly excites me.”
“We have depth in our junior program, but we want to take the time to consider what these options might look like for the future.”
And if Max Verstappen were to move, perhaps to Mercedes F1 or Aston Martin F1 in 2026?
“You’re speculating quite a bit! But we’re not afraid to stand out. George Russell’s contract ends next year. It would be foolish not to consider that. There are other talented drivers who might also be nearing the end of their contracts.”
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Red Bull’s Future: Horner Eyes Russell as Ricciardo Exits Red Bull’s Future: Horner Eyes Russell as Ricciardo Exits
