SUMMARY
- Red Bull faces internal strife following allegations against team principal Christian Horner, tarnishing his reputation within the team.
- Tensions between Max Verstappen's family and Christian Horner intensify amidst an ongoing internal investigation.
Right after the Lewis Hamilton-Mercedes fiasco, there seems to be a rift developing with the Red Bull team between Christian Horner and Max Verstappen. Everything appeared smooth sailing for the reigning champions until an investigation was initiated against the team leader. Horner was accused of ‘inappropriate behavior’ by a member of the team staff which has tinted his reputation once and for all.
Reports suggest that the relationship between Verstappen’s family and Christian Horner has undergone noticeable changes in recent years. This shift in dynamics has been boosted by an ongoing internal investigation within the Austrian outfit. While the Dutchman has been instrumental in Red Bull’s rise to glory, this rift between the two entities can cause some trouble for the team and the driver.
Verstappen family takes a stand against Horner in Red Bull probe
Despite their on-track dominance, the Milton Keynes-based team is facing tensions and potential conflicts among the key figures. This includes Christian Horner, Helmut Marko, the controversial team advisor, and Jos Verstappen, Max’s father. According to Motorsport-Total, the relationship between Horner and Jos has turned sour. Many speculate that this must be the reason which led to the lower involvement of the former driver.
🚨 | It is probably no coincidence that the Horner story was first leaked in the Netherlands of all places.
The personal relationship between Horner and Jos Verstappen has reportedly been badly damaged.
And Max Verstappen is considered to be a loyal person whose loyalty lies… pic.twitter.com/fqIdbdNBdY
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) February 7, 2024
The allegations towards Horner have widened the divide between the two factions, with Max Verstappen’s family taking a stand against the British team principal. Neither Christian Horner nor Jos Verstappen has publicly shared their opinions about the ongoing investigation. The outcome of this will predict if there will be any shifts in the dynamics between the involved parties.
Marko firmly backed Christian Horner amid ongoing investigation
Red Bull finds itself in hot waters as the British team boss faces charges of inappropriate conduct towards an employee. The parent company is taking these accusations seriously, which has led to suspicions regarding the possibility of Horner’s departure. Consequently, rumors have surfaced regarding potential machinations by Helmut Marko against the 50-year-old.
🚨 Helmut Marko was asked if he wasn’t actually behind a conspiracy against Christian Horner
His reply:
“Horner has done a great job over the years.”[@MST_ChristianN] pic.twitter.com/XCilzsq1GG
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) February 7, 2024
Marko has refrained from commenting much on Horner’s investigation but did say one thing, “Horner has done a great job over the years.” It is no secret that tensions between the duo escalated during the previous season. Now, with Horner’s position in jeopardy, Marko could potentially exercise greater influence within the team.
However, when directly questioned about the case against Horner, the 80-year-old said something that was rather cryptic. Nevertheless, Marko did not refrain from acknowledging Horner’s contributions to Milton Keynes over the years while sidestepping the question entirely.
