Verstappen commitment to Red Bull "phenomenal" - Horner

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has hailed Max Verstappen's long-term commitment to the organisation as "phenomenal".

Verstappen stunned F1 this week by agreeing to a five-year extension to an already existing contract that takes him through to the end of 2028, ensuring it is the longest deal in the sport's history.

Horner believes it vital the team secured the services of the reigning F1 champion for many years to come, in particular as it wanted stability when the crossover occurs into the new power unit regulations from 2026.

At that stage, Red Bull's Powertrains division will be up and running when the team will use its own engines.

"It [the new deal] very much demonstrates the commitment Red Bull has to Max and Max has to Red Bull," said Horner.

"It is fantastic news for the whole team, it shows commitment from both sides and a real belief in what we're doing.

"So what better way of starting this season than with the extension of this agreement, and until the 2028 season, it is phenomenal for us.

"Our immediate focus now for the year ahead is to try to retain that championship, that number one on the car that we fought so hard for last year, to ensure we keep that on the car at the end of the year.

"In subsequent years, it's an exciting period with these new regulations, it's important we optimise those, and then come 2026 we'll have an all-new Red Bull Powertrain engine in the back of the car."

Outlining the importance of continuity into that new era, Horner added: "We've always been a very big believer in that.

"Having Max for the long term, through the transition into 2026 with those new regulations, as we become an engine manufacturer and supplier, it's fantastic for us to have Max's commitment for that transitionary period."

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