Whilst Max Verstappen continues to perform at the highest level, the off-track antics at Red Bull are still playing out. Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen are at odds with each other – months after the Dutchman first suggested that Horner step down from his role as team principal. Meanwhile, Horner and Toto Wolff persist with their seemingly endless war of words.
Toto Wolff’s intentions of signing Max Verstappen are very well-established. Since Hamilton and Ferrari announced their partnership, the Mercedes team boss has been vocal about his admiration for the three-time Champion.
Despite Red Bull’s excellent performance to start 2024, there were lingering reports that Verstappen could leave the team. The power struggle between Helmut Marko, Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen contributed to the belief that Mercedes could sign the 26-year-old.
Of course, Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull is long-term. Still, especially with Mercedes making significant progress, the tension within the team could impact Verstappen’s future.
In yesterday’s press conference, Max Verstappen was asked about his status at Red Bull. As always, he reaffirmed his commitment to the team based in Milton Keynes.
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 24: Jos Verstappen and Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Consultant Dr Helmut Marko walk in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2024 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202405240700 // Usage for editorial use only //
Wolff, Horner and Jos Verstappen battle off-track
Meanwhile, Toto Wolff was quick to point out that these comments were subject to interpretation. According to the Austrian team principal, the Dutchman is still a target for 2025 and beyond.
Wolff dismissed suggestions that Verstappen is out of reach for his team.
Christian Horner’s response to Wolff was direct:
“If Mercedes wants to have a Verstappen in their car next year, Jos is potentially available,” he told the media.
Earlier this morning, Jos Verstappen expressed anger towards the Red Bull team principal.
Jos says it is “very disappointing” that he is not taking part in Red Bull’s “legends parade” in Spielberg this weekend. Though never having driven for Red Bull, nor being a legend of the sport, he is upset at not being allowed to participate.
He claims that Christian Horner’s intervention is why he will not participate in the event. Red Bull denies this claim.
Ultimately, these off-track exchanges are not Red Bull’s main focus this weekend. While the ongoing disputes between the different camps at Milton Keynes are noteworthy, reading too much into them is perhaps unwise.
