Christian Horner praised Red Bull Racing leader Max Verstappen. The team principal recalled that his driver had some impressive races throughout the season, and revealed that he was inspiring to all Red Bull employees.
“Max demonstrated this year the aptitude and mental strength he possesses” Horner said. “He had brilliant races, he rose to the occasion in key moments, he didn’t panic when things didn’t go his way. He drove like a four-time world champion this year .”
“He is the driver who most deserves to win this world championship. He worked hard, harder than in previous years, because our backs were against the wall during the summer. He worked hard with the engineers.”
“He was also an inspiration in the cockpit. You see the kind of racing he did in Brazil, the motivation he put into the team in Milton Keynes on Monday morning, you can feel the “Throughout the year, I appreciated his professionalism, his support and the fact that he was fantastic to work with.”
The Briton has had a turbulent year with accusations against him, and he reveals he has been supported by the team: “There are two things that stand out. First, the technical management came to my office with a letter that they had written and signed for the shareholders, in which they committed to supporting them and press.”
“It was very touching. Then when I spoke to the staff at the beginning of the year, the warmth and welcome I received was exceptional. I think sometimes the perception from the outside and what’s happening internally are two very different things.”
Horner is convinced that Red Bull will be stronger after this difficult season: “Everything that happened this season will make us stronger next year? 100%. What doesn’t break you makes you stronger. One hundred percent we will come out of 2024 stronger as a team , more determined than ever and more resolute.
“And what’s exciting for me is what the future holds. We are producing our own engine for 2026 and it is a massive undertaking. The commitment and passion that is in this company are superb and we will succeed.”
While there are rumors of Verstappen leaving for Mercedes, Horner assures that the Dutchman will stay at Red Bull: “Max will be there. He trusts the people around him. He believes in the people around him. He’s winning.”
“He’s in a good position and of course we have to continue to deliver a car that is worthy of his talent and I’m confident we can do that. Look, my tactic this year has been to keep my head down and keep going .”
“Let them throw their stones, do their job and at the end of the year, if we take the trophy home, we will have done the right thing under colossal pressure and scrutiny. But whatever happens , I will be proud of what we accomplished together, as a team and against all odds.”
