Overview

• At Zandvoort, Alpine executive director Flavio Briatore said he is not considering Christian Horner for the team, pushing back on speculation of an imminent role.
• Company filings show Horner has been removed from Red Bull directorships and is awaiting a settlement, with reports of private meetings with Briatore but no confirmed plans.
• Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies says the team is not in a hurry to name Max Verstappen’s 2026 team‑mate, and Helmut Marko expects decisions after further evaluation in September–October.
• Candidates are being assessed across the Red Bull system, with Tsunoda under review and junior options such as Isack Hadjar discussed, as Verstappen’s 2026 commitment provides stability.
• Toto Wolff admits Mercedes put 19‑year‑old Antonelli under “maximum pressure” and reiterates the team’s long‑term support, noting a debut podium and sprint pole followed by a lean run since Montreal.