In a recent development within the Formula 1 community, Jos Verstappen, father of reigning world champion Max Verstappen, has decided not to attend the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
This decision comes in the wake of comments he made about Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, who has been under scrutiny.
ESPN sources report that Horner was recently cleared by Red Bull GmbH, the parent company of the racing team, following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior.
The situation escalated when an email, allegedly linked to the case and sent from an anonymous account, was leaked to the media shortly after the complaint against Horner was dismissed.
READ: Toto Wolff demands transparency in Christian Horner misconduct investigation
Despite the controversy, Horner has retained his position.
This has led to calls from prominent figures in the sport, including McLaren’s Zak Brown and Mercedes’ Toto Wolff, for Formula One authorities to demand more transparency from Red Bull regarding the investigation.
Jos Verstappen expressed his concerns to the Daily Mail, stating, “There is tension here while [Horner] remains in position.
“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.”
This statement came after a public altercation between Verstappen Sr. and Horner, which was followed by an apology from Verstappen Sr.
He has also hinted at the possibility of his son leaving Red Bull if Horner continues in his role, amidst reports of a dinner with Mercedes’ Wolff.
The backdrop to this drama includes Max Verstappen’s dominant performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where he achieved the Grand Chelem, underscoring his focus amidst the ongoing controversy.
READ: Zak Brown slams Red Bull amid controversy
However, the tension within Red Bull, highlighted by Verstappen Sr.’s comments and his subsequent decision to skip the Jeddah race, suggests a growing rift that could impact the team dynamics.
Furthermore, Jos Verstappen’s past, marked by legal troubles including a fine and a suspended sentence in 2008 for threatening behavior and other allegations, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative surrounding the Verstappen family and Red Bull Racing.
Despite these personal and professional controversies, Max Verstappen’s pursuit of a fourth world title remains undeterred, showcasing his resilience and dedication to his sport.