Toto Wolff and Red Bull counterpart Christian Horner have reignited the war of words surrounding Max Verstappen after the Mercedes boss once again hinted at poaching the three-time world champion. Verstappen’s future at Red Bull was thrown into doubt last month after his father Jos said the team was in danger of being “split up” if Horner remained as manager. Horner was previously accused of inappropriate behavior towards a female colleague. He has denied the claims and an internal investigation cleared him of wrongdoing.

Verstappen has publicly committed his future to Red Bull but Mercedes boss Wolff is once again stirring the pot following the Dutchman’s emphatic victory at the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday.

“Everyone is waiting to see what he (Verstappen) will do,” Wolff told reporters in Shanghai.

“There are a lot of factors that go into a driver joining,” said Wolff, who will need to replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who will join Ferrari next year.

“Obviously, from the most rational standpoint, this is the fastest car in the hands of the fastest driver,” Wolff said.

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

Earlier this season, Wolff said he would “love” to sign reigning world champion Verstappen if he became available.

His latest comments prompted a sharp response from Horner, who said Wolff should focus on trying to revive Mercedes after a poor start to their high-standard season.

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

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

“Perhaps his time would be better spent focusing on the team rather than the driver market.

“I can assure you that Max Verstappen’s performance next year is clear.”

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)