Christian Horner Defends Max Verstappen: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has defended Max Verstappen against Lewis Hamilton’s criticism that he hasn’t had strong teammates. Horner stressed Verstappen’s domination over his teammates and the grid. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, said he has had stronger colleagues than Verstappen, including Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg. Hamilton’s statements have raised questions about team competition and how it affects drivers’ performance and reputation.
Another issue followed Christian Horner’s disagreement with Mercedes team head Toto Wolff’s comments that Red Bull’s RB19 is being created entirely for Max Verstappen. Horner labeled Wolff’s statements a “total lack of understanding” of racing cars and team development. He insisted on developing automobiles for speed, not a particular driver.
Hamilton highlighted his competing teammates Fernando Alonso, George Russell, Valtteri Bottas, and Nico Rosberg. These drivers have been “very strong, very consistent,” unlike Verstappen’s colleagues, according to Hamilton. Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate, has struggled to match his performance, raising questions about whether Red Bull is prioritizing Verstappen above his colleagues.
Christian Horner said that Verstappen has always defeated colleagues. As Horner noted, Max has shown he can compete against teammates and the field. Horner indicated some drivers would be afraid to partner with Verstappen because of his dominance.
The Formula 1 team quality question is nothing new. Strong teammates can help drivers perform better, while weak teammates can make drivers appear more dominant. The different management approaches of Red Bull and Mercedes complicate this topic. Mercedes has had competitive teammates like Hamilton and Rosberg, who pushed each other to the edge and caused team friction, while Red Bull has a clear first and second driver. Horner also criticized Toto Wolff’s comments on Red Bull’s car development approach. Wolff argued that the RB19 was designed for Verstappen, hurting Sergio Perez. Horner said that the goal is to build the fastest car. Horner says, “Quick cars are difficult cars,” so drivers must adapt.
The statements by Hamilton, Horner, and Wolff highlight the complex mechanics of Formula 1 racing, from team plans and car development to teammate quality. These disputes will undoubtedly escalate as the season progresses, especially if Verstappen and Hamilton fight for the championship. The talents, strategy, and teammates of these elite drivers will be examined with each race, adding to an already fascinating season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Why did Max Verstappen not let Sergio?
Last year at Interlagos, Verstappen declined to allow Perez to pass him, which would have helped Perez secure second place in the championship.
What rule did Max Verstappen break?
Max Verstappen has disregarded an unwritten rule by failing to attend the end-of-season dinner for Formula One drivers in Abu Dhabi. This gathering is a new tradition that aims to bring together all 20 drivers after the end of the season for a celebratory dinner and drinks.
Who is the highest paid Formula One driver?
What’s the financial status of the main stars of the racing world, the drivers? Max Verstappen made history by signing a whopping US$70 million contract (inclusive of salary and bonuses) with Red Bull Racing in 2023. But what’s his overall net worth?
Who is the old man with Max Verstappen?
Max Verstappen and his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase have formed a strong alliance during their tenure at Red Bull. However, their path to championship success has not been entirely smooth. Despite some challenges along the way, the duo has persevered and continues to work together seamlessly. Their partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication in achieving great things.
