As a weekend of high-tension for Horner got here to an finish with a dominant 1-2 for Crimson Bull within the Bahrain Grand Prix, the state of affairs surrounding his future took a dramatic twist late within the night as Verstappen Sr. known as for him to go.
Horner has been the topic of an investigation by Crimson Bull’s vitality drinks firm following allegations made towards him by a feminine worker.
The eight-week lengthy probe into his behaviour ended on Wednesday with Crimson Bull dismissing the claims and clearing Horner of wrongdoing.
Simply 24 hours later although, in a transfer clearly designed to attempt to pressure Horner out, nameless emails have been despatched to senior F1 personnel, together with crew principals and media, revealing the alleged proof on the centre of the matter.
Horner has stood agency amid the controversy and helped oversee Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez deliver residence an ideal begin to the brand new F1 season for the squad on Saturday in Bahrain.
However it’s clear tensions stay amongst these near him, and Verstappen Sr. has now upped the ante in calling for Horner to go.
Talking to the UK tabloid Day by day Mail, Jos mentioned: “There may be pressure right here whereas he stays in place.
“The crew is at risk of being torn aside. It could’t go on the way in which it’s. It’s going to explode. He’s enjoying the sufferer, when he’s the one inflicting the issues.”
Geri Horner and Christian Horner, Workforce Principal, Crimson Bull Racing, have fun on the podium ceremony
Photograph by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Pictures
The robust phrases from Verstappen Sr. are vital due to the massive affect that his son has on the squad, as he knuckles down for what he hopes is a cost to his fourth world crown.
Max Verstappen was questioned a number of instances over the Bahrain weekend for his views on Horner, and has repeatedly been very cautious in what he says.
Requested on Friday evening if he had religion in Horner, the Dutch driver mentioned: “Hear, once I take a look at how Christian operates inside the crew, he has been an unimaginable crew boss.
“So completely, from the efficiency aspect of issues, you may’t even query that. So that is what I am additionally coping with.
“I converse to Christian rather a lot. And likewise, in fact, all through the weekend right here, he is totally dedicated to the crew.
“He is additionally right here for the efficiency, in fact. Most likely somewhat bit distracted.
“However like I mentioned earlier than, we simply concentrate on the efficiency aspect of issues. And that is how all of us work collectively.”
Christian Horner, Workforce Principal, Crimson Bull Racing, and Max Verstappen, Crimson Bull Racing, 1st place, have fun in Parc Ferme
Photograph by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Pictures
There have been wild rumours that Verstappen Sr. has been concerned within the behind-the-scenes powerplay that’s making an attempt to get Horner out of his Crimson Bull position.
However that is one thing he has denied.
“That would not make sense,” he mentioned. “Why would I do this when Max is doing so effectively right here?”
