Christian Horner responds to Max Verstappen's dad as Red Bull claim dismissed

Christian Horner has responded to Max Verstappen's dad Jos after he said the Red Bull team principal "is causing problems" if he stays on in his position

Prior to the 2024 Formula One season, Horner has dominated headlines following reports of alleged inappropriate behaviour.

Horner, who has vehemently denied allegations, was cleared after an internal investigation.

Meanwhile, the female Red Bull employee in question is believed to have been suspended.

The saga, in addition to claims that motorsport advisor Dr Helmut Marko was facing a suspension relating to media leaks, has not been good for the team.

Amid the chaos, Verstappen has hinted at leaving the drinks company despite winning the first two F1 races of the season.

Verstappen's dad has not been afraid to voice his opinion, criticising Horner and stating that recent events have been affecting the team and "having an influence on Max".

Image: Getty

Revealing the two had been involved in an argument, he also added that it is too late for Horner to say "leave me alone" and said he expects him to stay on.

Horner fielded questions after Verstappen won the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix on Saturday and was adamant that there is no friction behind the scenes at Red Bull.

As per Crash.net, Horner said: "Obviously there’s [been] rumblings. I’m aware of what’s been said but Max is an important part of this team. He’s our driver and he’s doing a great job.

“As team principal and CEO, I’m responsible for the running of this team. So everyone has to do their part. Max is doing his part. Everybody else is doing their part.

“Look, I think speculation is obviously rife but the most important thing is the team and focusing on on-track performances.

“We all have a vested interest in achieving performances like today.”

Image: Getty

Verstappen continued where he left off in Bahrain with another excellent win, while Sergio Perez finished second to make it another Red Bull one-two.

Meanwhile, Marko has stressed that he is not suspended after a conversation with Red Bull's head of sport Oliver Mintzlaff where they concluded that "rumours were spread and "had no legal background".