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Christian Horner has hinted who could replace Max Verstappen at Red Bull if he joins Mercedes. Verstappen has been at the center of attention as he is being linked with a move away.
The speculations started after George Russell revealed that his own contract extension was being held up at Mercedes.
Verstappen's contract at Red Bull is until 2028 but is understood to have clauses in his contract that could enable him to leave the team earlier.
When asked about who is his backup option if Verstappen leaves, Horner said: "You know Oscar Piastri.
"It's all as subjective as that. We're very focused on our current drivers and the relationship.
"With any driver's contract, there is an element of a performance mechanism, and of course, that exists within Max's contract. His intention is that he will be there and driving for us in 2026. It's inevitable that he's of huge interest to any other team in the pit lane.
"Max has got a contract until 2028. He's made it quite clear that he would like to finish his career in a Red Bull car from start to finish. I think that's quite special and unique for him. That's what we're focused on. We're just ignoring the noise and focusing on the areas we know where we need to improve and how to do that."