“I Pushed Hard For This” – Christian Horner Speaks Out Against Solution to Radio Message Controversy in 2021 Season

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has criticized the new broadcast ban on Race Control’s messages in the wake of the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi GP. As per the new ruling, fans will not be able to hear the conversations between teams and the Race Director.

Horner believes that the decision is not in the best interests of the sport. The Brit believes that the conversation kept the public more interested during the race. Talking to Motorsport, he said, “I pushed hard for this and I’m responsible for broadcasting the radio messages. I felt it would be interesting to hear what happened between the pit wall and the race director, but I thought it would be less used if it aired.”

“It was used in competition last year. If I hear another team boss is putting pressure on the race director, it’s my job to defend my team.” he added.

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The decision to ban communication was taken after former Race Director Michael Masi made a late call to allow lapped cars to overtake leader Hamilton. As a result, Red Bull driver Max Verstappen was able to close the gap on his rival and eventually win the Championship.

The FIA has also decided that Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas will act alternatively as Race Director this season. The duo will replace Michael Masi and will work alongside Herbie Blasch, the new permanent senior advisor.

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The 48-year-old is seems pleased with Verstappen’s maiden Championship victory in 2021. The victory also saw the Dutchman sign a lucrative contract till 2028 with the team. However, the team is yet to find a solution to end the Mercedes dominance in the constructor’s run.

Mercedes have won the Constructors’ Champions for 8 years in a row. Moreover, the team has brought in George Russell to partner Lewis Hamilton in an All-English pairing. The Bulls will have their work cut out as the new regulations come into place in 2022, making the season start a “clean slate” for every team.

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Horner will be gearing up to renew the rivalry with Mercedes. However, there could be a few more surprises expected in the upcoming F1 season. Ferrari and McLaren have been impressive in pre-season and will be a potential threat for Horner and his men.