Verstappen insisted his father was not a liar, apparently agreeing with him after he had claimed that Horner’s position with the team was now untenable. Horner has always emphatically denied any wrongdoing but has persistently refused to make any comment on the leaked email. Verstappen Sr is believed in some quarters to be playing a role in a deliberate attempt to remove Horner, which he has denied. Horner has said he is “­absolutely confident” he will remain in charge at Red Bull and this week met ­Verstappen Jr’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, in an apparent attempt to clear the air with them through their representative. Verstappen Jr, who last week was reluctant to express his full confidence in Horner over the race ­weekend and when pushed only confirmed he was fully behind Horner in his role for the team in a “­performance” perspective, was once more equivocal when asked whether he now felt he could stay if Horner remained as team principal. Verstappen Jr has a contract with Red Bull until 2028 but it is believed to include escape clauses should certain key personnel leave the team. But I am very relaxed and very happy at the team and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave.”.

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