The relationship between Jos Verstappen and Christian Horner seems to have deteriorated further this year, raising questions about its impact on Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull.
Jos Verstappen has recently accused Christian Horner of preventing him from participating in the legend’s parade at the Red Bull Ring this weekend, marking the latest clash between the two. Earlier this year, Jos had called for Horner’s removal from Red Bull following allegations of inappropriate behavior, which were later dismissed.
Despite Red Bull’s denial of any conflict between the two, the tension appears to persist. Jos Verstappen was expected to drive Red Bull’s 2012 Championship-winning car in a legend’s parade prior to the Austrian Grand Prix. However, the 52-year-old told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that Horner blocked him from participating.
“Over the past few days, I’ve heard from multiple sources that Christian Horner has done everything he can to keep me from driving, and to make sure nothing would be filmed,” Jos stated. “Then I think, ‘Say it to my face’. This is not the way it has to be for me. I find it very disappointing. How 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ish can you be. There was going to be filming, for example also with a drone, but Horner didn’t want me to be filmed. I’m completely finished with Horner. It’s like a kindergarten here. I would have been allowed to ride in the end, but I backed out. I find this so 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ish of Horner, but I think it says something about him.”
In response, Horner denied any involvement in blocking Jos from the event and acknowledged their rocky relationship. “The legends’ parade is something that is organized by the circuit and there was no veto from my side or anything like that,” Horner said. “My relationship with Max has always been very good and very strong and he is a key part of our team. He is our driver and he is the one that is important to have a strong relationship with. I have never had an issue with any of our drivers’ fathers in the past, but whatever Jos’ issues are, I really don’t have anything to comment on.”
Addressing the situation, Max Verstappen emphasized his commitment to Red Bull and downplayed the conflict’s impact on his career. “My focus is on racing and achieving the best results for the team. Personal conflicts outside of the track are not my concern,” Max stated. “I have a strong relationship with Christian and the team, and that’s what matters most. I am fully committed to Red Bull and our goals this season.”
Despite the distractions, Red Bull has enjoyed a successful year, winning 70 percent of the races so far and leading both world championships. “We have enjoyed tremendous success despite the distractions of this year,” Horner added. “You cannot control everything in life and I cannot control relationships with drivers’ fathers.”
Max Verstappen’s reassurances suggest he is focused on his racing career with Red Bull, distancing himself from the ongoing feud between his father and the team principal. Fans can rest assured that Max remains dedicated to his team and their pursuit of further success.
