The Red Bull team has been enduring a rough patch due to a political power struggle. As the internal factionalism took shape, the Milton Keynes-based outfit looked vulnerable. As a result, the 2024 season started moving away from the squad. Further, their throne was in danger as the chasing packs got stronger.
As the waves of chaos started drowning Red Bull, starlet Max Verstappen became the savior. It’s a well-known fact that the Dutchman is one of the finest drivers in the grid. Thus, Verstappen continued his dream run despite challenges from rivals like Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc. After another comprehensive win, Red Bull manager Christian Horner praised Max Verstappen.
Max Verstappen Looks League Apart From The Competitors
Christian Horner highlighted several key moments in the race. He noted that losing pole position by just two-hundredths of a second to Lando Norris set the stage for a tight competition. Thus, the start of the race was crucial, and Red Bull chose to start on scrubbed tires to save the new ones for a potential undercut later. On the other hand, Max Verstappen had a strong start and quickly got alongside Lando. Despite some aggressive racing, which saw Verstappen briefly on the grass, George Russell was able to brake late and go around the outside. Horner emphasized that the race would always be dominated by tire wear, making it essential for Verstappen to pass Russell quickly.
Subsequently, Verstappen pushed hard in the first couple of laps to overtake Russell. Once the DRS opened, he began managing his tires, building a comfortable gap in the first stint. Later, Red Bull opted for an optimal race strategy regarding pit stops, while McLaren extended their stint, creating a gap offset. Further, Horner explained that although a nine-second gap seemed substantial, the tire offset meant those gaps could close quickly. Conjointly, the British executive praised Verstappen for driving a perfect race and emphasized the importance of not making any mistakes. He also acknowledged the team’s well-executed pit stops. Moreover, they were aware that Norris would close in towards the end of the race but felt confident they had enough of an advantage to secure the win, which ultimately proved correct.
The RBR principal also remarked on Verstappen’s performance under pressure, noting that while last year was exceptional, this year has been more challenging. He pointed out that winning every race is not normal and that the team has had to fight hard for their victories. Verstappen’s contributions have been crucial in making a difference. Horner concluded by saying they understand where they need to improve, are gaining a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and are doing enough to maintain and grow their championship lead.
Hands Off: Christian Horner Delivers Stern Warning to Toto Wolff Over Verstappen
Toto Wolff has been dreaming of signing Max Verstappen for Mercedes. However, after the Spanish GP, Wolff explained there aren’t any talks as of now. On the other hand, the Red Bull counterpart is equally confident about Verstappen’s future.
Moreover, the RBR principal explained that Verstappen was hungry for more after a unicorn season in 2023. Thus, despite all the pressure, the three-time world champion has managed to keep up. Therefore, Christian Horner has clarified Verstappen’s future lies with Red Bull.
