Formula 1 drama is heating up again, as former Haas team boss Guenther Steiner takes a shot at Jos Verstappen, the father of reigning three-time champion Max Verstappen. Steiner didn’t mince words, urging Jos to stay quiet after his latest outburst criticizing Red Bull and team principal Christian Horner.
The feud ignited when Jos, never one to shy away from controversy, claimed that Red Bull’s loss of key personnel was weakening the team. Horner, attempting to quell concerns, assured that Red Bull still had plenty of talent left, only for Jos to publicly accuse him of being dishonest.
Steiner is baffled by the escalating war of words, suggesting that both sides need to settle their differences for the sake of Max Verstappen’s career and Red Bull’s stability.
“We all know Jos can’t keep his mouth shut, and I’m not criticizing him for that. But is it the best thing for his son? I don’t know. Without knowing the full story inside the team, it’s tough to judge who’s right or wrong.”
Steiner’s warning comes as rumors swirl about Max’s future. With an exit clause reportedly in his contract, Red Bull could face serious consequences if internal conflicts continue to flare up.
Despite his blunt advice, Steiner admitted that he doesn’t judge Jos for speaking out, acknowledging that the former driver has always been vocal and passionate. However, he suggested that Jos needs to consider the impact of his words on Max’s image and career.
“Jos likes to share his opinions, and he’s entitled to do that. But he also knows the consequences because he’s a smart guy.”
With Red Bull trailing McLaren by 41 points in the Constructors’ Championship and only six races left in the season, the team faces an uphill battle to reclaim their dominance. Maintaining Max Verstappen’s loyalty could hinge on how they manage the growing tensions within their camp.