Max Verstappen reportedly set to lose key team member following Imola Grand Prix

Max Verstappen is setting his sights on the upcoming Imola Grand Prix, a race filled with both triumph and disappointment in his career. As the 2025 Formula 1 season continues, Red Bull Racing is looking to bounce back after a series of setbacks.

While Verstappen remains near the top of the standings, teammate Yuki Tsunoda continues to struggle at the back of the pack. Tsunoda, who replaced Liam Lawson after the second race of the season, has had a difficult start, adding to the internal challenges Red Bull is reportedly facing.

Looking ahead to the next stretch of races, there are growing concerns in Austria that Red Bull could be facing a major shake-up. Reports suggest that team principal Christian Horner may step down following the Imola Grand Prix, which would mark a significant change for the team.

According to Austrian outlet OE24, Horner’s final race at the helm could be this weekend. While speculation continues to build, no official confirmation has been made regarding his future with Red Bull.

Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner.

The reasons behind reported doubts about Verstappen’s team boss

Red Bull hasn’t had the strongest start to the Formula 1 season, and Horner’s future has reportedly been in question since last year. According to OE24, Horner was involved in a problematic situation with a female employee at Red Bull, which reportedly caused discomfort for team advisor Helmut Marko and star driver Max Verstappen.

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“At the time, the British team boss was still protected by Red Bull’s leadership in Thailand, while the Verstappen camp, including Helmut Marko, already wanted a separation,” the outlet reported.

In addition to the off-track issues, Horner has also come under fire for the RB21’s underwhelming performance this season. Both Marko and Verstappen have expressed concerns about the car’s competitiveness, with Horner reportedly seen as one of those responsible for the car’s development struggles.

Potential Red Bull Racing replacements if Horner departs

As speculation continues to swirl, many are watching to see what happens after the upcoming Grand Prix at Imola. Two names have emerged as possible successors if Red Bull decide to part ways with Horner. One is Franz Tost, a familiar figure within the organization. The other is former Alpine team boss Oliver Oakes, who was recently replaced by Flavio Briatore.