Max Verstappen has shed light on how Red Bull’s current controversies might be a tactical play by Formula 1 rivals. The Dutchman, speaking to De Telegraaf at the Bahrain test, pointed out, “It’s always a tactic,” highlighting the psychological warfare that accompanies the sport’s technical and off-track battles. Verstappen’s comments come at a time when Red Bull’s innovative approach for the 2024 season is under the microscope, not just for its pace but also due to the team’s off-track challenges.
At the heart of Red Bull’s predicament is Christian Horner, the team boss caught in a scandal that has fueled speculation about his future. Horner’s response to inquiries on the matter was measured, “Look, I’m really sorry but I cannot comment on the process or the time scale,” he told reporters in Bahrain, emphasizing the complexity and sensitivity of the situation. His stance reflects a broader desire within the F1 community for a swift resolution, though he admits, “I am really not at liberty to talk about it.”
The silence from many rival team bosses on the Horner issue is notable, yet Toto Wolff (Mercedes) and Zak Brown (McLaren) have made their positions clear. Brown echoed Wolff’s sentiments on the importance of upholding standards within F1, stating, “As the FIA and F1 have said, they need to handle it swiftly because I don’t believe these are the type of headlines that F1 wants or needs at this time,” also exactly echoing Wolff’s call for action in light of the sport’s ultra-modern commitment to “diversity, equity and inclusion”.
Another layer to Red Bull’s current state is the scrutiny over the collaboration between Red Bull Racing and its sister team, the newly-branded former Alpha Tauri. Horner defended the partnership and the brand’s strategy during trying times, including the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Red Bull continued to support both teams during this difficult time,” Horner stated, advocating for acknowledgment of Red Bull’s steadfast commitment to F1. “Red Bull’s commitment to Formula 1 is outstanding and deserves applause and thanks.”
Verstappen views the unfolding drama as par for the course in the high-stakes world of F1, where exploiting any edge, including psychological ones, is standard. “This has always been the case in Formula 1,” he said, acknowledging the cutthroat nature of the sport. “These things are 100 percent typical Formula 1. You’re always trying to take advantage of something, always trying to attract people away from other teams. It’s only logical and we would do that too,” he admitted, encapsulating the relentless pursuit of competitive advantage that defines Formula 1.
Amidst this backdrop of controversy and speculation, the perspective of Mathias Lauda, the late and great Niki Lauda’s son, offers a hopeful note. Speaking to the Osterreich newspaper, Lauda expressed his wish for a positive outcome: “I hope everything is not as bad as it’s rumoured,” showing support for Horner. “I hope Christian stays in F1. He’s done a great job as Red Bull’s team boss and helped to build that team.”
