An in-depth look behind the scenes of Red Bull's 'civil war', allegations against Christian Horner, and the impact on Max Verstappen's future.
The Formula 1 paddock has been abuzz with speculation surrounding the ongoing controversy at Red Bull racing.
What started as an internal matter involving team principal Christian Horner has spiraled into a complex power struggle within the organization.
This could potentially impacting the team's long-term future and the trajectory of reigning world champion Max Verstappen's career.
Behind the scenes
The saga took an unexpected turn when Red Bull, a company known for its tight-lipped media approach, issued an official statement addressing the situation.
This uncharacteristic move fueled rumors of a wider power play involving key management figures within the Red Bull organization.
According to paddock chatter, the conflict has evolved into a battle for control and influence between the Austrian side of the company and its Thai majority owner, Chalerm Yoovidhya.
According to German F1 Insider, Oliver Mintzlaff, who took over from Mateschitz, aims to dismiss Horner but lacks the authority to do so independently with just a 49% share, necessitating approval from the Thai proprietor.
Contrarily, Chalerm Yoovidhya is a strong supporter of Horner, as demonstrated by his presence with his wife at the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix.
Caught in the crosshairs are Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko and the Verstappen camp, each with their own agenda.
Alleged smear campaign
Just when it seemed the dust had settled after Horner was cleared by an independent investigation, the situation took a dramatic turn.
Anonymous emails containing WhatsApp messages and images, allegedly central to the investigation, were circulated among senior F1 personnel, including the FIA president, F1 CEO, team principals, and media.
While the veracity of the dossier remains unconfirmed, the leak signifies a deliberate effort to undermine Horner's position.
Speculations point to individuals with close ties to the Red Bull organization, potentially motivated by personal or professional interests.
Jos Verstappen's influence
Max Verstappen's father, Jos, has been vocal in his criticism of Horner, fueling speculation about his potential involvement in the alleged smear campaign.
However, Verstappen Sr. has vehemently denied these allegations, stating, "Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?"
Nonetheless, the events have presented an opportunity for Jos Verstappen to potentially capitalize on a change at the top of Red Bull, potentially paving the way for his son to renegotiate better terms or explore options with other teams.
🚨| Christian Horner and Jos
— F1News.live (@f1newslive_) March 4, 2024
Verstappen have
'heated'exchange at Bahrain GP.
[🎥 Sky Italy] https://t.co/eJ79Qnklce pic.twitter.com/7BaO9hK72u
Meeting in Dubai
Following the Bahrain Grand Prix, a meeting was convened in Dubai where Christian Horner and Max Verstappen's manager, Raymond Vermeulen, aimed to alleviate escalating tensions within the Red Bull team, as reported by The Independent.
Neither Jos Verstappen nor his son Max attended the meeting.
Related Article
F1news.live Staff
Horner threatens F1 Magazine
On Tuesday the Telegraph reported that Christian Horner is threatening legal action against an online F1 magazine for allegedly defamatory content, including disclosing the identity of a female employee linked to misconduct accusations against him.
His legal team accuses the magazine of breaching privacy and defamation laws, demanding the article's removal for causing Horner significant harm.
Despite Horner's denial of any wrongdoing and support from his wife, Geri Halliwell, the magazine's editor, Tom Rubython, stands by the publication, challenging Horner to seek a court injunction for its removal.
Mercedes speculation
Among the potential suitors for Verstappen's services, Mercedes has emerged as a prominent possibility.
Team principal Toto Wolff has long admired the Dutchman's talent, and with a potential cockpit opening in 2025, Mercedes could offer Verstappen a superstar role, benefiting from his global popularity and on-track record.
Wolff has been spotted in discussions with Jos Verstappen over the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend, fueling speculation about a potential move.
Ralf Schumacher former F1 driver told Sky Sport Germany that "To me, that means they are already in negotiations. That’s plan B if everything else falls apart."
German AMuS reports that Helmut Marko is worried the ongoing issues inside the team could lead to significant losses, not just with star driver Max Verstappen, but also with Adrian Newey and Ford, their future engine partners.
According to F1 Insider there is an exit clause in Max Verstappen's contract that allows him to leave Red Bull immediately.
According to this clause, he is free to leave if Helmut Marko leaves Red Bull.
"As far as I'm concerned: I won't stand in Max's way," says Helmut Marko.
Gerard Berger another former F1 driver told F1 Insider:
"As things stand now: Horner is staying, Helmut Marko and Adrian Newey are leaving and Max is going to Mercedes."
As the saga continues to unfold, the future of Christian Horner at Red Bull and the future Max Verstappen remains shrouded in uncertainty.
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