Jos Verstappen warns: Red Bull F1 team could face division if Horner remains

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Jos Verstappen

As the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend concluded with a dominant 1-2 finish for Red Bull, tensions surrounding Horner’s future took a dramatic turn as Verstappen Sr called for his departure.

Horner had been under investigation by Red Bull’s energy drinks company following allegations from a female employee. Despite being cleared of wrongdoing after an eight-week probe, anonymous emails surfaced a day later, aiming to pressure Horner out by disclosing alleged evidence.

Amidst the turmoil, Horner remained steadfast and oversaw a successful start to the F1 season in Bahrain. However, tensions lingered, prompting Verstappen Sr to demand Horner’s resignation.

Christian Horner

In an interview with the Daily Mail, Verstappen Sr voiced concern over the team’s unity, stating, “The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”

Verstappen’s influence within the team adds weight to his father’s statement, as the Dutch driver gears up for his championship campaign. Despite repeated questioning about Horner, Verstappen remained diplomatic, acknowledging Horner’s performance-oriented approach and expressing commitment to teamwork.

Amidst speculation of Verstappen Sr’s involvement in behind-the-scenes maneuvers, the situation remains tense within Red Bull’s ranks.

Written by Michael Smith

Michael Smith is a seasoned sports journalist with a focus on college and high school sports. He has been with the Sports Business Journal since 2006, following an 18-year tenure with daily newspapers, including coverage of University of Kentucky basketball for the Louisville Courier-Journal.

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