Explaining that opinion is due to Alpine’s impending engine partnership with Mercedes, Clarkson believes there are two new names of the F1 scene – Cadillac and Audi – who would “jump at the chance” to sign Horner, while if FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has his way, there would be a 12th team from China which could call upon Horner’s services.

Verstappen has won all his titles at Red Bull, starting in 2021, but his chances of a fifth in a row are receding fast as McLaren dominate.