Jos Verstappen has revealed that he received a ‘very serious’ threat from Red Bull’s Team Principal, Christian Horner. He accused Horner of ‘doing everything he could do to stop’ his Legends Parade participation at the Red Bull Ring.
Following Max Verstappen’s pole grab at yesterday’s sprint, the Austrian team has now dismantled again. This is greatly courtesy of the ‘Jos-Horner’ saga, that has refuelled yet again.
Regarding this, Jos Verstappen has come out with some ‘surprising words’ right before the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix.
Jos Verstappen said Christian Horner ‘did everything he could to stop’ him from participating in the Legends Parade in Austria
As the race weekend started, the Austrian outfit witnessed its camp under a major turmoil, involving two of its senior figures, Jos Verstappen and Christian Horner. Despite being on home ground, they rekindled their feud right before the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix.
In the latest events, things got heated between them over the Legends Parade at the Red Bull Ring. This event features old cars performing show laps at the Red Bull Ring, with Verstappen Sr scheduled to drive Sebastian Vettel’s 2012 RB8. But, in an unexpected turn of events, the former F1 driver withdrew from participating.
Speaking to Viaplay, Jos revealed that he withdrew from the event, after receiving a ‘very serious’ threat from the Team Principal. He accused Horner of doing all he could to stop the Dutchman from participating. Explaining it, he started by saying:
“I think it’s a shame, I would have really liked it, too.”
“I also prepared for it; I have all the stuff with me.”
“But, when I heard how everything went and how it was thwarted. Then I was like, ‘If there is so much opposition from someone within our team, I don’t have to do it’.”
During the interview, he claimed someone warned him about ‘sabotaged brakes’ on Vettel’s RB8, which he was supposed to drive. Reflecting on this, he added:
“From what I heard, is that he did everything he could to stop me.”
“And that I should just watch out if that thing should brake as well. I think that’s pretty serious to put it that way.”
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When quizzed about his ‘broken relationship’ with Horner, the 52-year-old indicated it wouldn’t be repaired anytime soon. Speaking about it, he further added:
“For someone who leads the team and wants to create peace within the team, I do find this very punishing.”
“How should I deal with that when you hear this? That doesn’t work a positive advantage for him.”
Moreover, this comes at an awkward time as Red Bull Racing faces increased pressure. McLaren has been closing in, so Red Bull must create calm and work together. But, Jos believes Max Verstappen can stay composed and perform. Noting this, he concluded by saying“
“He was sitting there when that was told, and he shook his head.”
“Then I just know it’s OK. It’s a little sad, but on the other hand, we’ll forget about it, move on, and it’s about what’s best for Max. I hope they build a car that wins for a long time.”
“Then Max will be fine, and I will do everything, so he stays fine and is fine. But, as soon as that is no longer the case, then I know what will happen.”
As things stand, Max Verstappen is now geared up for tomorrow’s 2024 Austrian Grand Prix at Red Bull’s home ground. The racing event will take place between 15:00 and 17:00 local time.
Feature Image: Red Bull Content Pool
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