Bréaking: Horner hits back at Verstappen critics with ‘aggressive’ Hamilton…Read more
Horner hits back at Verstappen critics with ‘aggressive’ Hamilton claim
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has fiercely defended Max Verstappen in response to criticism about the Dutch driver’s aggressive racing style and recent controversies.
Verstappen, who secured his fourth consecutive Formula 1 drivers’ title after a fifth-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, continues to dominate the sport despite facing significant challenges in 2024.
This season has been far from smooth for Verstappen, with McLaren’s Lando Norris emerging as a strong rival in recent months.
Speculation about Verstappen’s dissatisfaction with Red Bull has also fueled rumors about his future, keeping the spotlight on him.
Adding to the tension, Verstappen faced a unique penalty earlier this year for breaching the sport’s language regulations.
Throughout the season, Verstappen’s combative driving style has sparked criticism from fans and analysts, especially following heated battles with Norris in Austria and Mexico.
Despite his outward nonchalance, Horner revealed that such critiques have impacted Verstappen more than he lets on.
“He’s more sensitive than people think,” Horner said. “He’s aware of the criticism, and much of it is unwarranted.
Max is an aggressive, attacking driver, but so were legends like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton, who all faced similar scrutiny during their careers.”
Horner’s comments also underline his belief that Verstappen is unfairly targeted.
He emphasized that the aggressive approach is part of what defines great drivers, drawing comparisons to other Formula 1 icons.
As Red Bull navigates a challenging season, Horner’s staunch support for Verstappen highlights the team’s confidence in their star driver, even as external pressures mount.
Despite the obstacles, Verstappen remains a dominant force in the sport. However, questions about his long-term future at Red Bull and continued criticism of his driving style suggest that his journey is far from free of controversy.
Horner’s defense positions Verstappen as a polarizing yet undeniably talented figure in modern Formula 1.
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