The speculation has stopped.” Patrese took a moment to clarify that, “I’m a friend of Christian Horner and sent him a message of support, and I think that he is a very good team principal.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, right, talks to Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands before the qualifying session ahead of Sunday's Formula One Italian Grand Prix auto race ...

Lewis Hamilton paid a measured tribute to old foe Christian Horner on Thursday as Formula One prepared for its first race in 20 years without the now-dismissed Red Bull team boss.

New Red Bull Formula One team boss Laurent Mekies praised predecessor Christian Horner on Friday and revealed the Briton had been supportive and kept in touch since his sudden sacking two weeks ago.