Formula 1: Red Bull's boss could leave after the Imola Grand Prix

The continuity of Christian Horner as team principal of Red Bull Racing in Formula 1 is once again in doubt. This comes after new reports emerged in European media about his possible dismissal just days before the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, scheduled for Sunday, May 18 in Imola.

According to the Austrian newspaper Österreich, "a real earthquake is looming" in the F1 paddock, as there is the possibility that Horner could be removed from his position after Imola. The publication refers to "consistent reports" pointing to a decline in the team's performance and internal tensions that have been building since the previous season.

Österreich mentions the precedent of the scandal that surrounded Horner himself two years ago, due to an internal complaint of inappropriate conduct that led to an investigation. Although at that time he was backed by the Thai shareholders of the group, Verstappen's camp, with Marko as a prominent figure, has reportedly continued to press for his departure since then.

The outlet, from the same country as the main structure of the team, also mentions some possible replacements. Among them are Oliver Oakes, former head of Alpine, and Franz Tost, who led Red Bull's second team (Toro Rosso) for years. In Tost's case, his potential return would have an ironic twist, given that he had left after differences with Horner, who is now back at the center of the conflict.

Versions from other media

The rumors were also joined by AutoSprint, a specialized publication from Italy, and the British site Planet F1, which indicated that Horner's future could be determined by the team's performance in Imola. If the technical updates don't bring a "notable" improvement, the majority shareholder, Thai businessman Chalerm Yoovidhya, could withdraw his support.

AutoSprint indicates that, although Red Bull has been applying a progressive evolution of the RB21 since the Saudi Arabian GP, for this race a "revolutionary package" is not expected, but rather specific improvements in the suspension and the car's floor, without changes requiring aerodynamic homologation.

Meanwhile, Planet F1 also gathers voices close to Red Bull that describe all these versions as "baseless speculations". These media emphasize that Horner has a contract in place until 2030 and has led the team to more than 120 victories, 6 Constructors' titles, and 8 drivers' championships since his arrival almost two decades ago.

In this scenario filled with tensions and conflicting reports, what happens at the Imola GP could be decisive for the immediate future of the team principal.