Red Bull boss Christian Horner names Aussie Oscar Piastri as Max Verstappen successor

Christian Horner named Oscar Piastri as a target for Red Bull should four-time world champion Max Verstappen leave, as F1 rumours swirl.

Piastri will line up for the British GP on the front row alongside Verstappen after the Dutch superstar produced a near-perfect lap to clinch top spot during qualifying.

Lando Norris was third in the other papaya car, with George Russell fourth quickest for Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton fifth.

Speaking to media on Saturday (AEDT), Horner was questioned about rumours of Verstappen making a blockbuster switch to Mercedes.

Horner, seeing McLaren boss Zak Brown beside him, decided to deliver a cheeky jab at his rival.

'Oscar Piastri,' Horner laughed.

'It's all as subjective as that. We're very focused on our current drivers and the relationship.

'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.'

Horner later stated he would respect the contracts of the battling McLaren drivers.

'I think we've always taken a position of respecting the contracts that drivers have with their existing teams,' he said.

'They've got two great drivers. They're pushing each other hard, and they're managing to maintain a healthy relationship, which is always a significant challenge when you've got two very competitive drivers fighting for the ultimate prize in Formula 1.

'But every team is different. I wouldn't expect either of those guys… why would they be wanting to step out of what currently is the fastest car at the moment? That's the way it goes when you're at the front of the field and leading the pack.

'So, I'd be astounded if there was any change to what they've committed to.'

Brown said that neither of his driver would be leaving.

'Our drivers aren't going anywhere,' he said.

'They're very happy, we're very happy, so there's no need to look at any other drivers on the grid.'