Verstappen’s involvement in ‘Horner vs Jos’ situation sends message

The recent public dispute between Max Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen and Red Bull team boss Christian Horner at the Austrian Grand Prix was deemed unnecessary and unpleasant by the Formula 1 championship leader. However , Max’s response indicates that he does not consider both parties equally responsible for the disagreement. Jos accused Horner of trying to exclude him from a “parade of legends” organized by Red Bull, but Horner denied any involvement. Although Jos withdrew voluntarily, Horner made several comments that appeared to be directed at Max’s father. Max was understandably unhappy with the situation unfolding behind the scenes.

After his Austrian GP sprint victory, Max expressed his displeasure with the situation. He acknowledged that it was not a pleasant experience for him, his father, Christian or the team. He made it clear that he did not want such incidents to happen and that he understood his father’s point of view. Max stressed that he was focused on his performance and wanted to maintain good relationships with everyone involved. However, he believed the whole situation could have been avoided.

Max’s agreement with his father’s belief that he was not wanted to drive the car is significant. It fits with his overall frustration with the off-track tensions that have overshadowed Red Bull’s season. While Max has remained publicly neutral in the conflicts within the team, he intervened during discussions over the removal of Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. Marko himself called for a focus on the on-track issues in a television appearance. Max likely shares this view, given his pre-weekend comments that McLaren posed a serious threat.

Max praised McLaren’s performance, describing their car as strong and good in all areas, especially in terms of tire life compared to Red Bull. He also expressed a desire for greater speed from the RB20 after feeling very slow during the Spanish Grand Prix, despite winning. Although Red Bull showed some progress at the Red Bull Ring, Max’s overall outlook remains unchanged after a tough sprint race against Lando Norris.

During the same weekend, Max confirmed that he would stay with Red Bull until 2025. However, it is believed that he could still consider other options in the future, even for the duration of his current contract . It would therefore be wise for Red Bull to align its public message with Max’s desires, whether it concerns minor disputes or larger matters.