Oliver Mintzlaff allegedly praised Christian Horner during the Miami Grand Prix due to job security concerns. The controversy surrounding Red Bull and the accusations against Horner caused significant turbulence within the team. Despite being cleared by an independent investigation, new developments in the case have emerged, leading to tense relationships and the departure of key individuals. Amidst this chaos, Red Bull CEO Mintzlaff publicly expressed admiration for Horner.
The sudden departure of an influential figure like Mintzlaff surprised many in the motorsport community, especially the Red Bull team. Over the years, the 65-year-old has led the team to great success. Speculation suggests that the investigation saga played a role in his departure. However, despite ongoing issues, Mintzlaff applauded and praised Horner, believing in his ability to lead the team to success. It is worth noting that Horner is not only the team principal but also the CEO of Red Bull Racing.
However, F1-insider.com revealed that Mintzlaff’s positive comments about Horner may not have been genuine. It is alleged that the German may have been potentially coerced into speaking favorably about his boss. Refusing to comply with these instructions could have put Mintzlaff’s position at Red Bull for the upcoming season and beyond at risk. Consequently, the 48-year-old falsely praised Horner’s leadership, despite the evident difficulties within the team.
Despite starting the season with a strong performance, Red Bull has already suffered two defeats. The impressive showing of McLaren at the Miami Grand Prix, resulting in a historic win for their driver, highlighted the challenges that Red Bull is facing. Commenting on the team’s progress, David Croft noted that they seemed to be improving on track.
Croft ha anche menzionato che la Red Bull ha sacrificato la velocità in qualifica per migliorare il ritmo in gara. Tuttavia, anche altre squadre stavano progredendo costantemente, riducendo il gap rispetto alla squadra con sede a Milton Keynes. I commenti di Norris sulla McLaren che è la quinta squadra più veloce in pista, a soli due decimi dietro alla Red Bull, hanno ulteriormente sottolineato questo punto. Croft ha previsto che la Red Bull continuerà ad affrontare sfide dai suoi rivali nella stagione 2024.
Max Verstappen, pilota di punta della Red Bull, continua a mostrare le sue eccezionali abilità accanto al dominante telaio RB20 della squadra. Tuttavia, la stagione 2024 ha già rivelato che i suoi concorrenti si stanno avvicinando al pilota olandese. Di conseguenza, il pilota di 26 anni dovrà impegnarsi ancora di più per garantire vittorie lungo la stagione. Tuttavia, con la sua forma attuale e le risorse della squadra, Verstappen probabilmente garantirà un’altra vittoria nel campionato.
