Red Bull driver Max Verstappen backed former boss Christian Horner before he got sacked by the higher-ups at the racing team.

Christian Horner’s departure marked the end of one of the most successful eras in F1 history. The 51-year-old oversaw a total of 124 race wins, six Constructors’ titles and eight Drivers’ championships shared between Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.

After weeks of speculation over the future of Max Verstappen at Red Bull, it is Christian Horner who is departing the team. It was announced on Wednesday that Horner is leaving with immediate effect, and that Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Team Principal Laurent Mekies would be moving into that role with the senior team.