Things are still topsy-turvy in the Red Bull garage. Despite Max Verstappen‘s indications of an improved situation, Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen have rekindled their rift. Since the ‘inappropriate behavior’ investigation against Horner, things have been upsetting between the two. And Jos Verstappen didn’t stand in favor of Horner; noting that the team might be ostracizing him.
Meanwhile, Verstappen Sr. inflicted new accusations on Christian Horner. He blamed Horner for ruining his plan to drive in the Legend’s Parade at the Red Bull Ring. Verstappen, scheduled to drive the 2012 RB8, withdrew from the event and accused Horner of effectively sabotaging his moment at the Austrian Grand Prix weekend. These ongoing events have upset Jos Verstappen, who expressed his narrative on the matter.
De Telegraaf reported Verstappen Sr.’s statement where he shared, “Over the past few days, I’ve heard from multiple sources that Christian Horner has done everything he can to keep me from driving and to make sure nothing would be filmed,” further adding, “Then I think, ‘Say it to my face’. This is not the way it has to be for me. I find it very disappointing.” Explaining his claims with full conviction, Jos Verstappen is now convinced of Horner’s involvement in his being cornered. Moreover, Jos seems to have full knowledge of the conspiracies going on behind the scenes.
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To a greater extent, he believes Christian Horner can be the mastermind behind all that is going on. Considering these recurring issues, Verstappen Sr.’s words could spark more controversy, risking Red Bull’s reputation even further. Additionally, this renewed bitterness refocuses the attention on Max Verstappen’s future. Despite Mercedes’ efforts, the 26-year-old has remained loyal to Red Bull, achieving milestones throughout his tenure. So, as for now, it appears that Max will stay with the team until 2028.
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Max Verstappen is going to stay at Red Bull, no matter what
The three-time world champion has made it clear once again that he is still with Red Bull. At the FIA’s press conference yesterday, he confirmed that the team was already planning for next year. “We are also already focusing on next year with things that we can implement in the car. So I guess that should say enough about where I’m driving next year,” Verstappen stated.
Max Verstappen was also asked if he’d leave the team at the end of the season if they weren’t the fastest, to which he replied, “I don’t think that’s how Formula 1 works, where suddenly you can say, ‘well, bye, guys’. It’s not how it works. I have a long contract with the team. I’m very happy where I’m at.” Undoubtedly, his implications are clear – the Dutch beast is here to stay. However, some might point out that even Lewis Hamilton had said something similar about Mercedes, but look, he is leaving now! Well, if everyone were to do the same, wouldn’t F1 become boring?
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The shifting dynamics within Red Bull, as pointed out by Jos Verstappen, are currently indicating a sense of tension. On one side is Verstappen Sr., who is taking every opportunity to show Horner’s follies. On the other, Christian Horner has been dodging every allegation, and amidst all this chaos, Max Verstappen remains sandwiched. What’s your take on Max’s loyalty to his team? Let us know in the comments.