Max Verstappen is now recognized as the best Formula One driver. Although Lewis Hamilton is still a racing superstar, the Dutchman has outperformed him in the previous three years. At barely 26 years old, Verstappen has shattered nearly every F1 record, creating a remarkable legacy. This accomplishment is largely because of the Red Bull team, which outfitted him with a very competitive car. Furthermore, Red Bull invested money in Verstappen during his early racing career, which aided his racing abilities. As a result, he continues to win races with his energy drink-powered team.
However, the recent Austrian GP was one of the worst outings for the Dutchman. While he blamed the team for the unfortunate incident, he was equally at fault. Thus, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has replied to Horner’s previous remark about Verstappen.
“That’s Just Stupid,” The Horner-Wolff Verbal Spat Continues After The Austrian GP
Before the home Grand Prix, the team leader met with media outlets to give an insight into Verstappen’s move. Horner said that Verstappen stood solid in his stance and was clear about his future. Furthermore, the British executive reacted angrily to Toto Wolff’s ‘Did he really say Yes’ statement. He said Wolff might have the Verstappen, but only Jos Verstappen (Max Verstappen’s father). While this was a cheeky response, it also provides insight into Horner-Jos’ relationship, which has been tight.
After winning the Austrian GP in Red Bull’s backyard, Toto Wolff is upbeat. He replied to all the remarks made by the RBR boss. While the team is looking for Lewis Hamilton’s replacement, Wolff has expressed his desire to sign Verstappen. Further, this has resulted in friction between the two rivals, and verbal exchanges are common. During his time on SkyGermany after the weekend, Wolff responded to Horner, who said Mercedes was ‘distracted.’ The Austrian executive proclaimed it all to be ‘stupid,’ although he didn’t hear anything.
Further, the Mercedes chief was asked whether Jos Verstappen and Horner’s fringing dynamic could benefit the Silver Arrows. He replied that if the team had a fast car, every fast driver would come to them. However, he gave his team a reality check by saying they weren’t fast enough. Moreover, talking about his bond with Sr. Verstappen, Wolff confirmed the two get along well as they live nearby. However, in the end, he said although they’re good as neighbors, that doesn’t mean Max would drive for him.
Could Max Verstappen Change His Stance After A Terrible Spielberg Outing?
While the 26-year-old Dutchman has declared that he will stay in Milton Keynes, he is eager to drive a powerful racing vehicle. The RB20, one of the most elite F1 cars, faces rival competition, which has weakened the team’s dominance.
Further, the recent outing with Spielberg has left plenty of doubts for the squad. The three-time world champion was disappointed with the team and expressed his dismay during the media interaction. Jos Verstappen and Christian Horner’s recent controversy could make things go downhill for the defending champions.