Red Bull’s Christian Horner Declares Max Verstappen’s Controversial Victory as Team’s Pinnacle Moment in F1
In a shocking revelation, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has pinpointed Max Verstappen’s contentious maiden title win at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as the absolute highlight of the team’s Formula 1 journey.
Verstappen’s entry into Red Bull’s junior team, Toro Rosso, at just 17 years old caused a sensation, but it was his exceptional speed and natural racing prowess that quickly set him apart as a standout rookie in the sport. Promoted to Red Bull Racing in 2016, Verstappen wasted no time in proving his worth by clinching a victory in his very first race with the team in Spain.
Horner reflected on Verstappen’s growth within the team, recognizing his extraordinary talent and development over the years. With a competitive car powered by a strong engine, Red Bull provided Verstappen with the tools needed to unleash his full potential on the track.
The 2021 season witnessed a fierce battle between Verstappen and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, culminating in a nail-biting showdown in Abu Dhabi that ultimately led to Verstappen’s controversial championship win. Horner described the season as an iconic journey, likening it to a heavyweight fight that captivated fans from the opening race in Bahrain to the thrilling conclusion in Abu Dhabi.
Following his inaugural title win, Verstappen continued his dominance in the sport, securing a second championship in 2022 and an unprecedented 19 victories in the 2023 season. Despite facing increased competition from McLaren and Ferrari in 2024, Verstappen’s skill and resilience shone through as he claimed his fourth consecutive Drivers’ title with three races to spare.
Horner praised Verstappen’s achievements, emphasizing his rightful place among the F1 greats and his unwavering commitment to excellence on the track.
The Red Bull team’s journey to glory, culminating in Verstappen’s historic wins and unmatched talent, solidifies their status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Formula 1.