Toto Wolff has denied that his “teasing” of a move for Max Verstappen for the F1 2026 season contributed to Red Bull’s decision to sack Christian Horner. And he was quipped that he will be “really in the s**t” if Horner’s next move sees him join F1’s governing body, the FIA.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has appeared to rule out a move to sign Max Verstappen for 2026, as he reiterated his desire to retain the team’s current Formula 1 line-up. There have been widespread reports that Verstappen could be Mercedes-bound since George Russell divulged that the two parties are engaged in active discussions.

Toto Wolff has denied that his public courting of Max Verstappen played a role in the sacking of Christian Horner, insisting that there was 'much more in the background' that led to the 51-year-old's dismissal. The long-serving Red Bull boss was relieved of his duties ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix.