Verstappen Says F1 Paddock Feels Calmer Without Horner

Max Verstappen says the Formula 1 paddock feels less stressful since Christian Horner left his role at Red Bull, pointing to the friction that had hung over the team for a long time.

The Dutch driver did not go into detail about what that tension looked like day to day. He kept his point simple. "It is not nice when you constantly have tension between people," Verstappen said, making clear that he sees the calmer atmosphere as a relief rather than a loss.

Horner led Red Bull's Formula 1 operation for around two decades before he was removed as team principal in 2025. His departure ended one of the most recognizable leadership roles in the sport, and Verstappen's comments suggest the change is being felt beyond the boardroom, among the drivers and staff who spend every race weekend together.

The remarks are a reminder that team dynamics matter as much as lap times. A garage that runs without constant internal conflict is easier to work in, and Verstappen's view is that the paddock is better for it.