Jos Verstappen has declared he is “done” with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, accusing him of being “childish” for allegedly sabotaging his plans to participate in this weekend’s Legends Parade.
The Red Bull Legends Parade, part of the Austrian Grand Prix, is set to take place this weekend at the Red Bull Ring.
Jos Verstappen, father of Max Verstappen, was supposed to drive the 2012 RB8, a car famously driven by Sebastian Vettel during his third consecutive title-winning season, which featured a thrilling battle with Fernando Alonso.
The event traditionally features several historic cars completing show laps around the Red Bull Ring.
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However, the former Dutch F1 driver claims Horner has blocked him from participating, a matter on which Red Bull has not commented after being approached by RacingNews365.
As a result, Verstappen Sr has withdrawn from the parade, criticizing the Red Bull team boss for allegedly intending to block all filming of his participation.
“How childish can you be,” Verstappen told Formule1.nl regarding the situation.
“There was going to be filming, for example also with a drone, but Horner didn’t want me to be filmed.
“I’m completely finished with Horner. It’s like a kindergarten here.
“I would have been allowed to ride in the end, but I backed out.
“I find this so childish of Horner, but I think it says something about him.”
This dispute casts a shadow over the Legends Parade, which has become a beloved part of the Austrian Grand Prix weekend.
Jos Verstappen’s planned appearance in the RB8 was highly anticipated, given the car’s storied history with Sebastian Vettel.
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Despite the controversy, the event will proceed with other historic cars and drivers.
However, the absence of Verstappen Sr will likely be a notable omission, emphasizing the personal rift between him and Horner.
The implications of this conflict may extend beyond the weekend, affecting relationships within the Red Bull Racing community.