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Helmut Marko disputes Christian Horner's claim about Max Verstappen's signing

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 7, 2026, 11:31 AM

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

Helmut Marko disputes Christian Horner's claim about Max Verstappen's signing

Summary

Helmut Marko has responded to claims made by Christian Horner in his upcoming autobiography, Drive, asserting falsehoods regarding Max Verstappen's signing to Red Bull Racing. Marko called Horner's account 'an absolute lie,' supported by Ralf Schumacher, who stated that Marko approached Verstappen when he was 11. Marko emphasized that the decision to sign Verstappen was not solely based on Jos Verstappen's influence. As tensions grow between Horner and Marko, the feud is expected to intensify leading up to the book's release on October 22.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports Motorsport.com

By the Numbers

•Marko denies Horner's claim about his role in signing Verstappen.
•Ralf Schumacher supports Marko's stance, criticizing Horner's narrative.
•Marko approached Verstappen at a young age, contrary to Horner's assertions.
•The controversy stems from Horner's autobiography set for release on October 22.
•Ongoing tensions between Marko and Horner are well-documented.

Latest Updates

11:31 AMYahoo Sports — Helmut Marko backs Ralf Schumacher’s 'absolute lie' comment on Christian Horner
11:31 AMMotorsport.com — Helmut Marko backs Ralf Schumacher’s 'absolute lie' comment on Christian Horner

What they're saying

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Christian Horner's upcoming autobiography, Drive, is already causing massive shockwaves ahead of its 22 October release. The former Red Bull Racing team principal, who departed the Milton Keynes squad in 2025, used his book to drop several bombshells about his time at the top of Formula 1. One of Christian Horner's most controversial claims centres around the signing of four-time World Champion ...Keep reading
— Motorsport.com