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Max Verstappen Silences Critics with 4th F1 Title Amid Scrutiny: Horner Defends Aggressive Champion

Redação by Redação
December 14, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Max Verstappen Silences Critics with 4th F1 Title Amid Scrutiny: Horner Defends Aggressive Champion

Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 8, 2024 Red Bull's Max Verstappen in action during the race REUTERS/Amr Alfiky

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Red Bull Racing boss Christian Horner has opened up about the intense scrutiny Max Verstappen faced during his 2024 Formula 1 campaign, revealing that the four-time world champion is “more sensitive” to criticism than many might assume. As Verstappen joins the elite ranks of F1 legends, his aggressive driving style has become a lightning rod for controversy, drawing parallels to the greats who preceded him.

“He Felt It”: Verstappen and the Weight of Criticism

Throughout the 2024 season, Verstappen found himself under fire for his no-holds-barred racing approach, particularly during fiery clashes with McLaren’s Lando Norris at the Austrian, United States, and Mexico City Grands Prix. His aggressive tactics, including running Norris off the track, sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits alike.

The backlash reached a boiling point after Verstappen suggested he faced unfair criticism due to his “wrong passport,” hinting at bias from sections of the British media. Addressing this onslaught, Horner defended his star driver’s character and racing philosophy.

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“He’s more sensitive than you think,” Horner admitted. “Some of the criticism he’s received has been very unfounded. He’s an attacking driver, and that’s what makes him extraordinary.”

A Champion in the Making: Comparisons to F1 Legends

Horner wasn’t shy about drawing comparisons between Verstappen and some of Formula 1’s all-time greats.

“But so was Ayrton Senna. So was Michael Schumacher. So was Lewis Hamilton,” Horner asserted. “They all faced the same kind of scrutiny at different points in their careers.”

Verstappen’s triumph in Las Vegas, where he clinched his fourth world title, solidified his status among F1’s elite. Joining an exclusive club that includes Juan Manuel Fangio, Alain Prost, and Sebastian Vettel, Verstappen’s name now sits alongside legends whose legacies were built on both brilliance and polarizing moments.

Defying the Odds in a Challenging Season

Unlike previous years of dominance, Verstappen’s 2024 campaign was far from smooth sailing. Red Bull’s RB20 often lagged behind rivals McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes, leaving Verstappen without a victory for a staggering 10-race stretch between Spain and Brazil. The Dutchman’s ability to wrestle an underperforming car to consistent podiums underscored his resilience.

By the time the Las Vegas Grand Prix rolled around, Verstappen had overcome the season’s adversities to claim the title. His emotional reaction after crossing the finish line highlighted just how much the achievement meant to him.

“He’s got huge maturity,” Horner said. “But this title means so much to him. You could hear it in his voice—the emotion. Fame doesn’t sit easily with him. He’s not about the spotlight. He’s about driving fast cars, and that’s what makes him unique.”

Verstappen’s Legacy: Aggression and Greatness

Despite the criticisms, Verstappen’s aggressive style is a hallmark of his racing DNA. It’s a trait that Horner believes cements his place among the sport’s finest.

“What Max has done this year absolutely cements his position amongst the greats in the sport,” Horner concluded. “Statistically and through his driving, that’s unquestionable.”

A Controversial but Unstoppable Force

As Verstappen basks in the glory of his fourth championship, the debates surrounding his driving tactics rage on. However, one thing is clear: Max Verstappen is redefining modern Formula 1, blending raw talent with an unapologetically fierce racing style. Love him or hate him, Verstappen’s place in F1 history is already secured—and he’s only just getting started.

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