Context:

Max Verstappen faces a pivotal decision about his future with Red Bull following the departure of team principal Christian Horner. While Verstappen has a contract with Red Bull until 2028, he is being pursued by Mercedes, and Horner's exit may remove a point of tension for the Dutchman, who was uneasy about past allegations against Horner. Red Bull's recent decline in performance, highlighted by McLaren's ascendancy, further complicates Verstappen's choice as he contemplates whether the team can return to its former dominance. The new team principal, Laurent Mekies, faces the challenge of stabilizing Red Bull, retaining Verstappen, and addressing the technical issues plaguing the team's cars. Additionally, Red Bull must reconsider its approach to its second driver strategy, as no driver since Daniel Ricciardo has matched Verstappen's performance, exacerbating the team's struggles on the track.

Dive Deeper:

• Max Verstappen's decision to stay or leave Red Bull is influenced by Christian Horner's departure, as Horner's exit might ease some personal tensions and could be a strategic move by Red Bull to retain the champion driver.

• Despite being contracted with Red Bull until 2028, Verstappen is attracting interest from Mercedes, presenting him with potential alternatives if he chooses to explore them, especially given Red Bull's recent performance issues.

• Red Bull's performance has significantly declined, with the team struggling to match McLaren's advancements, raising concerns about the technical department and future competitiveness, especially after key figures like Adrian Newey and Rob Marshall's departures.

• Laurent Mekies, the new team principal, is tasked with re-stabilizing the team amidst these changes, with a focus on retaining Verstappen and addressing the design and technical challenges that have left Red Bull trailing behind competitors.

• The team's second driver strategy is under scrutiny, as Verstappen's teammates have failed to perform at his level, suggesting a need for a recalibration of car development and driver selection to regain competitive balance.

• Mekies brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles in F1, including time with the FIA and Ferrari, aiming to change Red Bull's public image and internal dynamics following Horner's controversial tenure.

• Verstappen's dissatisfaction with the car's balance and Red Bull's overall competitiveness, especially compared to McLaren's recent dominance, are central to his decision-making process as he considers his future with the team.