Red Bull Boss Christian Horner Reveals the “Psychological Game” That Rattled Mercedes Counterpart Toto Wolff: “It Was First Time in 7 or 8 Years…”

Red Bull Racing and Mercedes’ rivalry has become one of the most intense affairs in the current F1 era. But above all, it is perhaps the rivalry between the two men behind the teams, which is the most fascinating to see unfold. Christian Horner, team principal of Red Bull, witnessed another victory as Max Verstappen lifted his second championship trophy. And this brought back memories of last year’s battle at Abu Dhabi.

Christian Horner appeared in the latest episode of Steven Bartlett’s ‘Diary of a CEO’ podcast. Here, he shared his thoughts on the rivalry that flamed up last year in Abu Dhabi.

“Last year’s world championship became a titanic battle, not just between the two drivers on the track but also between the two teams off the track,” Horner recalled.

He then went on to elaborate on the subject: “As a team manager, the person you are pitted against is your counterpart. This is a psychological game as well as a physical activity and, of course, it was the first time in 7 or 8 years that this team was under pressure.” [Translated using Google]

It is a matter of pride to be able to rattle someone who has been sweeping the board for so long. Christian Horner is no stranger to this. He went on to talk about his views on the different management styles of the teams:.

“I think the way you behave as a leader ripples through the whole company. If you feel tension and you pass it on then that’s not healthy, don’t lead by fear. You want it to be open and inclusive so people feel they have a voice and will be heard, rather than afraid to say what they think.”

READ MORE: Christian Horner’s Comments Come Back to Haunt Max Verstappen’s Bid to Save 2021 Title From Lewis Hamilton

Christian Horner’s ideals of leadership have surely worked as even after the 2022 regulations, with which most teams suffered, the bulls are charging towards both the championships this season.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner is confident about winning the Constructor’s championship

Max Verstappen won the World Driver’s Championship yet again, this time a little early, at Suzuka last weekend. However, the Constructor’s championship is still up for grabs.

All the teams are going to gear up to tussle their hardest for a good position in the constructor’s standing in the coming races. But, Red Bull does seem to have quite a lead.

Christian Horner is confident about their chances for the remaining races, and he praised his team after the Japanese Grand Prix, “I think this is the strongest technical team we’ve ever had And I think that’s testimony to the hard work that goes in behind the scenes that has delivered this kind of performance.”

“Everybody within the factory, within Red Bull, all of our partners, all of our technical partners have just stepped it up another gear this year, and it’s been phenomenal.”

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With this manner of confidence, no wonder Red Bull seems unstoppable. Now, it is a matter of when and not if Red Bull will win the Constructors’ title.