Red Bull Faces ‘Explosion’ Threat Amidst Horner Controversy
Jos Verstappen, father of reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, has raised concerns about the future of the Red Bull team amidst allegations of inappropriate behavior against team boss Christian Horner.
Verstappen Sr. expressed his belief that the team is on the brink of collapse if Horner remains in his position. “There is tension here while he (Horner) remains in position,” he told the Daily Mail. “The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode.”
Verstappen rejected claims that he played any role in the allegations against Horner, which were initially reported by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. “That wouldn’t make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?” he said.
Red Bull announced on Wednesday that Horner had been cleared of the allegations following an internal investigation. However, the subsequent leak of anonymous emails containing alleged WhatsApp messages from Horner has reignited the controversy.
Several teams have criticized the lack of transparency in the investigation. Horner, who was accompanied by his wife Geri Halliwell in Bahrain, maintained that the team was united after Red Bull’s one-two finish in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.
“A one-two finish like this is the optimum and you don’t get that without being absolutely united, having a strong team and great support from partners and shareholders,” he said.
Horner expressed confidence in his support from the Red Bull owners, including majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya. “Backing? Absolutely, yes. And I’ll be there. Otherwise I wouldn’t be here!” he said.
Horner has led Red Bull to six constructors’ championship wins and seven drivers’ title triumphs since 2005. Last year’s Red Bull car won a record 21 of 22 races, dominating the season.
The allegations against Horner and the subsequent fallout have cast a shadow over Red Bull’s start to the 2023 season. It remains to be seen whether the team can maintain its unity and success amidst the ongoing controversy.