Christian Horner pushes back against Max Verstappen's driving being criticized for being over the limit at times
Red Bull boss Christian Horner put his weight behind Max Verstappen amid criticism over the latter's aggressive form of driving. The Brit compared the Dutchman to the likes of Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher to opine that Max is a tough operator who races hard and never gives up.
The four-time world champion found himself in hot water when he faced penalties in Austria and the Mexican Grand Prix for separate incidents involving his championship competitor, Lando Norris. From drivers to stewards to team principals and engineers, a narrative of Verstappen's driving being dangerous floated across the F1 community.
However, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner defended Max Verstappen. During his interview with talkSPORT, the team principal said that the 27-year-old is a tough operator who likes to race hard. He cited examples of previous legends, such as Senna and Schumacher, who faced scrutiny over similar reasons in their time.
"Max is a tough operator and he knows what the rules are. He'll race hard you on all the greats you whether it was 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 the aura of a tough guy and that he won't ever give up, a quality that has helped him achieve four championships in a row.
"Max has got this aura about him that you know he's a tough operator and he'll never ever give up. If you're going to pass him you're going to have to work very very hard for it," he added.
The Dutch driver performed under pressure throughout the 2024 F1 season, particularly after the summer break as McLaren and Lando Norris closed down the gap significantly. With RB20 unable to unlock its maximum potential and teammate Sergio Perez failing to break into the top five of qualifying rounds, the 27-year-old was put in a tough spot.
While Max Verstappen couldn't help Red Bull defend the constructors' championship, he did win himself his fourth championship title, beating Norris by a small margin. He capped off a turbulent season with a trophy in his hand. However, competition in the 2025 F1 season is only going to level up after a huge shakeup in the drivers' lineup. Liam Lawson has replaced Sergio Perez for the 2025 F1 season and beyond.
Max Verstappen shares farewell message for Sergio Perez
On December 18, Red Bull Racing put an end to rumors and speculations to confirm their drivers' lineup for the upcoming season. In a statement, the team confirmed that Sergio Perez will be parting ways effective immediately. His seat will go to Liam Lawson, who drove for sister team VCARB in the second half of the 2024 F1 season.
As a farewell message, Max Verstappen remembered all the great memories he shared with Sergio Perez to bid the latter a final goodbye. On his official Instagram handle, Verstappen wrote:
"It’s been an absolute pleasure driving alongside you 🙏 We’ve had some amazing moments together that I’ll always remember. Thank you, Checo!"
Perez signed a two-year extension contract earlier this year. However, Red Bull was reportedly dissatisfied with his performance, and hence the two parties mutually decided to part ways.
Moreover, Lawson, who drove six races in the 2024 season for VCARB, has been handed a promotion over Yuki Tsunoda.