The first round of F1 2024 was dominated by Red Bull, who secured a 1-2 finish like a year ago. However, their sporting success continues to be overshadowed by power struggles in the background related to Christian Horner’s leadership.
Jos Verstappen’s recent comments published by the Daily Mail are a clear message to the company’s owners, who have so far supported the team principal:
“The team risks being divided. It can’t go on like this. It will explode.
“He plays the victim when he himself causes the problems.”
These quotes leave no doubts about his thoughts and also risk spilling over into a bigger controversy. Pressure continues to side for Christian Horner, who was joined by his wife Geri in the paddock yesterday.
Also present was Red Bull’s majority shareholder, owning 51% of Red Bull shares. This was a clear gesture of great support.
Jos Verstappen and Christian Horner clash
However, Jos Verstappen’s statement leaves no doubt. His words comes after an anonymous and petty file about the internal investigation involving an employee and alleged inappropriate behavior by Horner was sent to journalists, the FIA and Stefano Domenicali.
These words from Jos Verstappen indicate that the team is in an extremely difficult situation and perhaps an unsustainable one.
Not even successive victories could be enough to cover the turmoil further.
The power struggle between various factions has begun.
This is a notable warning from the father of the team’s reigning World Champion driver. Until now, Max has always been very specific about his comments on this issue.
However, the situation at Red Bull is increasingly complex and difficult to avoid every day.
Jos Verstappen was seen in talks with Toto Wolff earlier this week.
Meanwhile, his former team principal Flavio Briatore also met with the Mercedes boss. This is almost certainly the beginning of talks between Alonso and the Mercedes camp.
There are many ways to apply pressure in F1, especially in a situation that has so far remained a stalemate.
Jos’s public statements put discussion and media attention on a different level to the investigations, suggesting a deep discontent and a clear split in the Milton Keynes team.
It is difficult to make predictions. On the one hand, even large partners such as Ford cannot help but be alarmed by potential damage to their image or by the potential threat of losing Max Verstappen. The consequences can be significant.
On the other hand, Red Bull’s majority shareholders, the Chaleo Yoovidhya family, do not seem willing to give up total control of decisions by abandoning Horner after Mateschitz’s death.
Author: Giuliano Duchessa
Translation: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
