Red Bull's Shake-Up: What Horner’s Exit Means for the Team’s Future

Written By Kerry Malcolm

The end of an era. The first domino has fallen in what could become a legendary shake-up in the world of Formula 1. After more than 20 years leading Red Bull Racing, Christian Horner is out, and it happened in the blink of an eye.

But why now? We think the answer begins, and ends, with Max Verstappen.

Is Max really heading to Mercedes? Are the long-swirling rumors finally coming to life? With Adrian Newey already gone and cracks forming in Red Bull’s dominance, it’s fair to ask if the threat of losing Max was the final straw that broke the camel’s back.

If you listened to our most recent episode of Motorsport Podcast, you’ll know I saw this coming. I just didn’t expect it to happen so soon.

The F1 paddock is in full chaos mode—and we’re here for it. Here’s how we see the grid reshaping if the rumors prove true:

  • Max to Mercedes
    Toto Wolff’s long game finally pays off. If Max walks away from Red Bull, he won’t do it without a title shot—Mercedes is offering just that. And let’s be honest, this move makes all of Toto’s dreams come true.

  • George to Cadillac
    It’s bold, but the timing makes sense. With manufacturer backing and American ambition, this could be George’s team to build. Bonus chaos point: A Russell–Bottas reunion? Don’t rule it out.

  • Oscar to Red Bull
    It just makes sense.

    He’s lightning quick, ruthlessly consistent, and managed by none other than Mark Webber—who knows Red Bull inside out. With Max likely heading to Mercedes, Red Bull needs someone who can deliver results now, not in three seasons. Piastri fits that mold.

  • Gabriel Bortolleto
    Coming straight from the driver academy and managed by none other than Fernando Alonso—a McLaren legend himself—Gabriel Bortoletto’s path to McLaren feels like destiny.

The F1 landscape is shifting beneath our feet, and the fallout from Christian Horner’s exit is just the beginning. Max Verstappen’s potential switch to Mercedes could set off a chain reaction of moves that reshapes the grid like never before.

Buckle up, 2026 is going go be wild.

Kerry Malcolm