Red Bull boss Christian Horner has put his weight behind him Max Verstappen Amid criticism regarding the latter's aggressive driving style. Compare the British Dutchman to the likes of Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher to see that Max is a tough driver who races hard and never gives up.
The four-time world champion found himself in a tough spot when he faced penalties at the Austrian and Mexican Grand Prix for separate incidents involving championship rival Lando Norris. From drivers to stewards to team principals and engineers, a story has spread throughout the Formula 1 community about the danger of Verstappen's driving.
However, Red Bull team manager Christian Horner Defend Max Verstappen. During his interview with talkSPORTThe team principal said the 27-year-old is a strong player who loves to race hard. He cited examples of previous legends, such as Senna and Schumacher, who faced scrutiny for similar reasons in their era.
“Max is a tough driver and knows what the rules are. He will compete hard with all the greats, whether it's Senna or Schumacher or you know Hamilton, they've all been you know under that scrutiny,” Horner said. (24:54 onwards).
Horner believes Max has a tough guy aura and will never give up, a quality that has helped him to four championships in a row.
“Max has this aura that you know he's a tough player who will never give up. If you're going to get past him, you're going to have to work hard for it,” he added.
The Dutch driver has been performing under pressure throughout the 2024 Formula 1 season, particularly after the summer break where McLaren and Lando Norris closed the gap significantly. With the RB20 unable to unleash his and his teammate's full potential Sergio Perez After failing to qualify for the top five in the qualifiers, the 27-year-old was put in a difficult position.
While Max Verstappen was unable to help Red Bull He defended the Constructors' Championship, winning his fourth championship title, narrowly beating Norris. He ended a turbulent season with the trophy in hand. However, competition in the 2025 Formula 1 season will only increase after a major change in the driver line-up. Liam Lawson will replace Sergio Perez for the 2025 Formula 1 season and beyond.
Max Verstappen shares farewell message for Sergio Perez
On December 18, Red Bull Racing put rumors and speculation to rest by confirming their driver line-up for next season. The team confirmed in a statement that Sergio Perez will leave immediately. His seat will go to Liam Lawson, Who drove sister team VCARB into the second half of the 2024 F1 season.
As a farewell message, Max Verstappen recalled all the wonderful memories he shared with Sergio Perez to bid the latter his final farewell. Verstappen wrote on his official Instagram account:
“It was a pleasure driving alongside you 🙏 We had some great moments together that I will always remember. Thank you Chico!”
Perez signed a two-year contract extension earlier this year. However, Red Bull was reportedly dissatisfied with its performance and hence the two parties decided to part ways.
Furthermore, Lawson, who drove six races in the 2024 season for VCARB, received a promotion over Yuki Tsunoda.
Edited by Chirch