Toto Wolff, Christian Horner clash over Max Verstappen's Red Bull future

Toto Wolff and Christian Horner have reignited their war of words over Max Verstappen after the Mercedes boss hinted at poaching the three-time world champion.

Verstappen’s future at Red Bull has been in doubt ever since his father, Jos, said the team was in danger of being “torn apart” if Horner remained its principal.

It came after allegations against Horner of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague. He denied the claims and an internal investigation has since cleared him of wrongdoing .

Verstappen has publicly committed his future to Red Bull and vowed to see off his contract , but following the Dutchman’s dominant victory at the Chinese Grand Prix , Mercedes boss Wolff stirred the pot anew.

Wolff told reporters in Shanghai that “everyone is waiting to see what he (Verstappen) is going to do”.

“There are so many factors that play a role for a driver joining,” said Wolff, who is on the hunt to replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton , who is leaving for Ferrari next year .

“Clearly, from the most rational point of view, that’s the quickest car in the hands of the quickest driver,” said Wolff.

“But I don’t think this is the only reason you stay where you are.”

Wolff has acknowledged that he “would love” to sign the reigning world champion Verstappen if he were to become available.

His latest comments triggered a response from Horner, who said that Wolff should focus on trying to revitalise Mercedes following a poor start to the season.

“Why would you want to leave this team?” Horner said.

“Mercedes are third behind their customers (McLaren and Aston Martin).

“His time would be better spent perhaps focusing on the team rather than the driver market.

“I can assure you that there is no ambiguity about where Max Verstappen will be next year.”