Verstappen's dad details what Red Bull star "doesn't like" amid power struggle (original) (raw)
Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has not relished being quizzed about the future of team principal Christian Horner in recent weeks, his father has said
Max Verstappen has been repeatedly asked for his stance on Christian Horner in recent weeks
Jos Verstappen has revealed that his son has not enjoyed having to field questions over the recent scandal involving Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner.
Horner was accused of "inappropriate behaviour" before being cleared by an idependent investigation last month. The incident has, however, thrust both Horner and Max Verstappen into the limelight as well as overshadowing the three-time world champion's perfect start to the new Formula 1 season.
Verstappen Snr has been outspoken on the impact that the investigation has had on Red Bull. He has already publicly called for Horner to resign, although the 50-year-old has insisted that he retains the full support of the team's top brass, including majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya.
Verstappen Snr has now alluded to the fact that there is a power struggle going on behind the scenes while outlining the impact recent events have had on his son. He told Sporza: “It's definitely hard for the outside world to follow. I think it is a necessity for them to get calm within the team, but given the circumstances, I think it will continue for a while. I'm curious, but it doesn't help the whole process.
“There is definitely a certain power struggle going on. We'll see, I can't say too much about it. I hope peace returns soon and they start concentrating on racing because that's what it's all about. But this is not good.
“I don't know what to do. The most important thing for us is that Max keeps winning and he is doing that. The car is very good and between the engineers and Max, there is nothing going on.
“So that is also good. Max knows how to get that part out too, but he gets a lot of questions about what's going on and he doesn't like that. But that's also part of it, the other side of Formula One.”
Horner was cleared following an independent investigation (
Image:
Getty Images)
Despite ongoing speculation over his own future, Horner reaffirmed he has no intention of standing down, nor does he expect to be dismissed. Speaking after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, he said: “There are rumblings and I'm aware of what's been said. Max is an important part of this team. He's our driver and is doing a good job and as team principal and CEO I'm responsible for the running and operation of this team.
“Everyone has to do their part. Max is doing their part and everyone else is doing their job. The speculation is obviously rife but the most important thing is the team and focusing on on-track performances.
“We all have a vested interest in achieving performances like we have. You only do that by having a spirit, determination throughout the entire company and the drivers are driving the end product and they have done a wonderful job. We move on and our focus is on Melbourne.”
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