Tensions within the Red Bull team are reaching boiling point, with team principal Christian Horner squarely at the center of the storm.
Ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Horner engaged in a face-to-face meeting with Max Verstappen’s manager. This encounter occurred against the backdrop of ongoing internal turmoil within the Milton Keynes-based team, which is threatening to overshadow their on-track successes.
Although Verstappen secured a commanding victory in the opening round of the season in Bahrain, with teammate Sergio Perez clinching second place, the spotlight was on the team’s internal struggles rather than their triumphs on the track.
Initially, Horner had been exonerated by an internal investigation initiated by Red Bull GmbH in response to allegations of misconduct.
However, during practice sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit, an anonymous email surfaced, containing purported evidence that was shared with Horner’s counterparts in rival teams, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and members of the F1 media.
Despite Horner’s assertions of a united front within the team, comments made by Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, following the Bahrain Grand Prix have only exacerbated the internal crisis. Jos Verstappen hinted at the potential for the team to implode if Horner were to retain his position.
Speculation has arisen suggesting that Max Verstappen, a three-time world champion, might consider switching to Mercedes if Horner remains in charge. Rumors also circulate about the possible departure of key figures such as motorsport advisor Helmut Marko and chief technical officer Adrian Newey.
As the F1 circus prepares to return to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, efforts to address the escalating tensions within the team have included a meeting between Horner and Max Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen.
Notably, neither Max nor Jos Verstappen were present at this discussion. Despite the mounting pressure, Horner is expected to retain his position for the Saudi Arabian event, while Jos Verstappen will be absent as he participates in a rally event.
