Jos Verstappen believes Horner’s continuity is hurting Red Bull
After a tense Bahrain Grand Prix for Christian Horner, which ended with a double for Red Bull, the situation surrounding his future has been called into question A dramatic turn of events occurred late this Saturday when Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, asked him to leave the team.
The director of the energy drink team was punished parent company investigation following allegations made against him by an employee. The investigation into his conduct ended on Wednesday, after eight weeks, with Red Bull dismissing the allegations and clearing Horner of any wrongdoing.
However, 24 hours later, in an apparent attempt to force him to quit, anonymous emails were sent to senior Formula 1 officials, including team bosses and the media, saying The alleged evidence on which the case was based was revealed.
Horner stood his ground in the controversy and helped control Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez at the weekend to complete An ideal start to the 2024 season for the team this Saturday in Sakhir.
But it is clear that internal tensions still exist and Jos Verstappen has raised the bar by calling for Horner to leave.. Conversation with a British tabloid Daily mailthe Dutchman said: “As long as he remains in office, there will be tension. The team is in danger of breaking up. This cannot continue. It will explode. He plays the victim when he is the one causing the problems.“.
Geri Horner and Christian Horner
Photo: Zach Mauger/Motorsport Images
Verstappen’s father’s strong words carry great weight because of the enormous influence his son has on the Austrian team as it prepares to seek its fourth world crown. Max Verstappen was asked several times over the weekend what he thought of Horner. He was repeatedly very careful with his words.
Asked on Friday night if he had faith in his boss, the reigning three-time champion explained: “Look, when I look at how Christian operates on a team, he’s an incredible team leader.. So from a performance point of view it’s not even in doubt. “I’ll take care of that too.”
“I talk to Christian a lot. And, of course, throughout the weekend he is completely committed to the team. He’s also here to perform. Probably a little distracted.” But like I said, we only focus on the performance of things. And that’s how we all work together“he continued.
Jos Verstappen was rumored to be involved in a behind-the-scenes power play to remove Horner from his role at Red Bull. But he denies it. ““It doesn’t make sense,” he said. “Why would I do this if Max is doing so well here?”“, he concluded.