Russell has consistently held his own against seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton since joining up with the Silver Arrows in 2022, though he is yet to commit his future to the team beyond next season. And Red Bull are keeping on top of Russell's situation in case there is an opportunity to pounce.

The former Williams driver suggested that Horner’s once-celebrated leadership style may no longer be having the same unifying effect on the team, as well as suggesting that the internal investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour at the start of the year may have rocked the boat.