Renowned for his outspoken nature, Jos Verstappen stirred up significant turmoil within Red Bull Racing by accusing Christian Horner of creating internal strife, a move that has forced his son, the Formula 1 champion, into a challenging situation.
Speaking to The Daily Mail, Jos emphasized the team’s fragility, asserting that Horner, by playing the victim, is actually the source of the issues jeopardizing Red Bull Racing.
Before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen broke his silence on the altercation between Jos and Horner in Bahrain. Even though Max refrained from endorsing his father’s prediction of potential team disintegration under Horner’s leadership, he robustly defended Jos’ credibility by stating, “He is truthful.”
“Since my go-karting days, he has always been outspoken and honest. However, I prefer not to dwell on such matters. I am concentrated on my driving responsibilities. Any conflicts are best addressed internally within the team,” Verstappen remarked.
Getty
“I believe in mature and respectful communication among individuals, even if disagreements arise. I may not always concur with every F1 decision, but constructive dialogue is essential,” he added.
Notable Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, who also experienced parental involvement in his F1 career, responded to inquiries about Verstappen’s predicament post his father’s statements.
“Without knowing the specifics, it’s challenging to assess the validity of his claims,” Hamilton remarked, referencing Jos’ assertion about Red Bull’s potential disarray. “Ultimately, he is a parent, not a team member. While it’s an opinion, it might prove counterproductive [for Verstappen].”
Hamilton’s father, Anthony, initially deeply involved in his son’s career as manager and advisor, eventually distanced himself amidst contract and endorsement disputes to maintain a clear boundary between family and business interests.
“Navigating this terrain is delicate,” he shared with Racing News 365. “It hinges on the parent-child relationship.
“I am unaware of Verstappen’s personal dynamics. While gossip spreads, Max is a mature individual and champion capable of independent decisions. In our profession, external influences can lead astray, but in his case, he excels.
“This dilemma arises from wanting a parental bond alongside a professional rapport, which complicates matters greatly.”
Verstappen has strived to distance himself from the recent team disruptions, prompted by the investigation into Horner’s conduct initiated by Red Bull in February. Allegations of impropriety towards a female staff member surfaced just before the season opener with unsubstantiated evidence circulated to media and the F1 community. Horner vehemently denies these claims.
Have a lead? Reach out to us at tips@thedrive.com
