F1 News: Max Verstappen's Father On Horner Allegations - "I Sympathise With The Woman"
Jos Verstappen expressed his support for the woman who levied allegations against Christian Horner, after she was suspended from the Milton Keynes team. The saga has cast a shadow over Red Bull Racing, sparking reactions from within the F1 community.
Key Takeaways:
- Jos Verstappen, father of F1 star Max Verstappen, voices his sympathy for the woman accusing Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour.
- Verstappen Senior to miss the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, citing participation in the Hannut Rally in Belgium.
- The controversy surrounding Horner is said to be affecting Max Verstappen's focus and performance, according to his father.
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The unfolding drama surrounding Red Bull Racing's team principal, Christian Horner, has captured significant attention. Jos Verstappen, in a statement to the Daily Mail, articulated his backing for the accuser amid her suspension. This development comes as Max Verstappen, the three-time world champion, gears up for the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix from a pole position, albeit without his father's presence at the event.
"I sympathise with the woman, with all that she went through, but we will see what happens," Jos Verstappen remarked
His absence at the Grand Prix, due to participation in a rally event in Belgium, doesn't diminish his concern over the controversy's impact on his son.
Jos Verstappen also hinted at the enduring nature of the situation, suggesting it may be too late to simply move past the allegations.
"I think it's a bit too late for that now. If that's what he [Horner] wants, fine, but I don't think it will be possible," he said.
"I don't want to talk too much more as it will create problems. But the most important thing for me is that Max is happy, that's what counts for me, I just want him to be happy."
The controversy has seemingly permeated aspects of Max Verstappen's professional life, with his father noting the distraction it has caused. Jos Verstappen criticised the media focus on Horner, and doubles down on his view that Horner should leave the team.
"But all these things that are going on are having an influence on Max. He was third in the first practice, and all we hear about is Horner and what happened with his situation.
"In the press conference Horner gave the other day it was all about him and his problems when we should be talking about Max, the car, his performance and the race.
"I've already said I think it is causing problems if he stays."
This comes on the back of Red Bull consultant Helmut Marko expecting to be suspended, with more news due on that today. Max has expressed concern over this, hinting that he likely won't stay if Marko is removed from the team.
"He has built this team from the ground up with Dietrich's blessing and I think he's always kept a good relationship with a lot of people in the team and backed the important people and in crucial moments as well," the 3-time world champion told Sky F1.
"He's definitely a key member now for the future."