Jos Verstappen, father of three-time world champion Max Verstappen, has issued a stark warning, suggesting that Red Bull Racing could face internal turmoil unless Christian Horner steps down as team principal.
Verstappen Sr.’s bold assertion emerged as Christian Horner attempted to project an image of stability, posing alongside his wife, former Spice Girl Geri, and Chalerm Yoovidhya, Red Bull’s majority owner, in what appeared to be somewhat forced photographs.
“There is palpable tension within the team as long as Horner remains in his current role,” Verstappen Sr. told the Daily Mail. “The situation risks tearing the team apart. It’s unsustainable. Something has to give,” he continued. “Horner is portraying himself as the victim when he’s actually at the root of the problems.”
It’s worth noting that Jos Verstappen has a history of outspokenness, with his fiery temperament earning him the nickname “Verstappen-slappen” in some circles, due to his tendency to lash out.
His comments come in the wake of leaked documents, whose authenticity remains unverified, purportedly containing messages between Horner and the staff member who raised allegations of misconduct. This leak occurred just a day after Red Bull concluded its internal investigation, declaring the grievance unsubstantiated.
The timing and targeted dissemination of the leak within the Formula 1 community suggest a deliberate agenda at play, further exacerbating the already tense situation. Horner’s public appearance alongside Red Bull’s majority owner underscores the apparent division within the company over the issue.
Asked about his potential involvement in the leak, Verstappen denied any connection, emphasizing his son’s success with the team.
Meanwhile, Horner, amidst the unwanted attention, maintained focus on racing, stressing the team’s commitment to on-track performance. He declined to comment on the motives behind the leak, instead reaffirming his dedication to his team, family, and the sport.
Despite the distractions, Red Bull had a successful start to the 2024 season, with Max Verstappen securing victory. Horner reiterated the team’s resolve to move forward, emphasizing the completion of an internal investigation and the need to focus on racing.
As the saga continues, the internal dynamics at Red Bull remain under scrutiny, with questions lingering about the future leadership of the team.
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