Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, has come out swinging against the online critics and “keyboard warriors” who have been directing negative messages towards the team. Despite facing a barrage of online attacks, Horner remains unfazed and asserts that Red Bull pays no attention to the noise generated by social media.
With a rich history of success in Formula 1, including six constructors’ championships and six drivers’ titles over two decades, Red Bull is no stranger to rivalries and controversies. In the current season, McLaren has taken the lead in both championship standings, sparking tensions between the teams.
Horner, known for his fiery personality, has not shied away from exchanging jibes with McLaren CEO Zak Brown in the past. However, he stands firm in his commitment to defending his team and employees against any form of criticism or negativity. “I will always rush to the defence of my employees. That’s your job as a team leader,” stated Horner.
In the era of social media, where fans have a direct line to teams and drivers, online interactions have become increasingly prevalent. Despite the influx of online commentary, Horner emphasized that Red Bull remains focused on its primary goal – racing and delivering top performances on the track. “Honestly, we don’t pay any attention to it whatsoever. We just focus on our job, going racing and doing the best we can,” Horner affirmed.
Acknowledging the complexities of Formula 1 as a business, Horner highlighted the importance of teamwork and unity within the organization. He stressed the significance of collaboration across different departments to achieve success on the track. “What you see trackside is only 20 per cent of the role… You’ve got to stick to your beliefs, you’ve got to work as a team and stay focused,” Horner explained.
As the competition heats up on and off the track, Horner’s unwavering support for Red Bull amidst online scrutiny showcases his dedication to the team’s success. Despite the rise of “keyboard warriors” in the digital age, Red Bull remains undeterred in its pursuit of excellence in Formula 1.