Christian Horner has hit back at a wild Formula 1 theory that Max Verstappen could be gearing up for a Red Bull exit after his Spanish Grand Prix antics.

The four-time world champion collided with George Russell in Barcelona after he was instructed to give a place back to the Mercedes star, earning him three penalty points and a 10-second time penalty.

However, F1 pundit Ralf Schumacher has developed a bizarre theory that Verstappen’s move on Russell was not just intentional, but also part of a plan to finish lower than third in the drivers’ standings in order to end his contract with Red Bull before 2028.

Horner rubbishes Verstappen clause theory

The idea that Verstappen would purposefully jeopardise his chances at a fifth world title appears far-fetched, especially when his move on Russell reflected his mentality to win at any cost.

Verstappen’s 10th place finish at the Spanish GP has seen the champion plummet nearly 50 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri, with his third place in the drivers’ standings now under threat from Russell.