The ability of Christian Horner to handle difficult situations during Formula 1 race weekends has become a common occurrence. However, the issue he had to address at the Austrian Grand Prix was perhaps the strangest so far. What started as a private dispute between Horner and Jos Verstappen, father of Red Bull’s star driver Max, was suddenly thrown into the spotlight in Austria.
Verstappen made direct comments about Horner to the Dutch media earlier in the year. But it was in Austria that Horner’s response to these comments gained attention during the FIA press conference. Verstappen was scheduled to participate in the legends parade, but withdrew, claiming that Horner had blocked his participation. Rumors in the Red Bull paddock suggested that there was a dispute over whether Verstappen should be filmed as part of the parade. Although Horner denied vetoing anything, Verstappen saw it as a deliberate interference in his participation.
This led to a public feud through the media, with Verstappen’s comments being brought to Horner’s attention. Horner chose not to respond directly, but instead made several veiled jabs. He clarified that the legends parade was organized by the circuit and that he had not vetoed anything. When asked about his relationship with Jos and Max, Horner emphasized that his focus was on his relationship with Max, as he is the team’s driver. He stated that he had never had problems with the parents of drivers in the past and had nothing to comment on Jos’s concerns.
The argumentation of Horner is that his only concern is the team’s performance and his relationship with Max. He highlighted Max’s growth as a driver and his contributions to the team’s success. Despite the distractions this year, Red Bull has won most of the races and leads both world championships. Horner acknowledged that he cannot control his relationship with the drivers’ parents, but reiterated that his focus remains on the team’s performance.
Although Horner’s focus on the team is understandable, questions arise about the impact of the tense relationship with Jos on Max’s future at Red Bull. Jos and Raymond Vermeulen, Max’s long-time manager, played a crucial role in Max’s decision to join Red Bull initially. The tense relationship with Jos could potentially make a move to Mercedes more likely for Max.
Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, openly expressed his desire for Verstappen to join the team earlier this year. This has sparked rumors of a possible exchange, even before Mercedes made significant progress with their 2024 car. The prospect of moving from Red Bull to Mercedes is now seen as less of a step back. In addition to short-term progress, Mercedes also promises ambitious goals for 2026. Horner highlighted that Lewis Hamilton, who chose to leave Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025, had all the information about the engines and regulations but still decided to switch teams.
Some close to Verstappen believe that his statement about driving for Red Bull in 2025 during the press conference was not a definitive commitment. They speculate that he wants to assess the development race this season, with Mercedes progressing and Red Bull facing increasing pressure to improve their own car. Horner dismisses Wolff’s efforts to attract Verstappen as a mere distraction tactic. He jokingly suggested that if Wolff wants a Verstappen for next year, Jos may be available.
The threat of Verstappen switching to Mercedes, the dilemma of what to do with the other Red Bull drivers, and the team’s loss of dominance are all significant challenges that need to be addressed. However, it is strange that a personal dispute between Jos Verstappen and Horner is once again taking center stage.
© 2024
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton is preparing for the upcoming season in style. After winning his seventh world title, Hamilton decided to invest in a new mansion in London. The property, which cost around R$ 100 million, is a true palace and has all the amenities the driver needs to relax and have fun.
Hamilton’s mansion features an indoor Olympic pool, a tennis court, a cinema room, a complete gym, and even a go-kart track. In addition, the property has a helipad and a garage to house the driver’s incredible car collection.
“I am very happy with my new home. It is a place where I can relax and enjoy my free time. Moreover, it is a great location to train and stay fit for the upcoming season,” declared Hamilton.
Besides the new mansion, Hamilton has also invested in his own racing team. The driver bought a Formula 2 team and plans to use it as a platform to promote young talents and diversify the sport.
“I’m excited about this new venture. I want to give opportunities to young drivers and help make Formula 1 more inclusive and diverse,” said Hamilton.
With so many achievements and investments, it’s no wonder Hamilton is considered one of the greatest drivers of all time. His determination and talent have taken him to the top of the sport, and he shows no signs of slowing down. Fans can expect more thrills and victories in the upcoming seasons.
