Max Verstappen Defends Father Amid Red Bull Turmoil, Addresses Speculation of Mercedes Move

As tensions simmer within Red Bull Racing, three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has come to the defense of his father, Jos Verstappen, amidst controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner. Speculation has also arisen regarding Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes following Lewis Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari.

Jos Verstappen’s recent remarks, suggesting that Red Bull could “explode” if Horner remains in charge due to alleged misconduct toward a team employee, have stirred the Formula 1 community. However, Max Verstappen has stood by his father’s outspokenness, affirming: “I have not asked him that, but my dad, from how I know him in go-karting, is very outspoken and he is not a liar. That’s for sure,” said Verstappen.

“My dad and I are very close. We call every day.”

Despite recent upheaval, including a dismissed complaint against Horner and subsequent dissemination of evidence to key figures in the sport, Verstappen remains focused on his pursuit of a fourth consecutive championship. He emphasizes the importance of a harmonious team environment, stating his desire for “a quiet environment where everyone is happy to work.”

“I’m the driver, I don’t know what’s happening higher up,” he said. “But from my side, I’m contracted to focus on the performance side of things and that’s what I’ll focus on this weekend.

“What has been said in Bahrain from everyone is to just leave that behind and hopefully have a quieter weekend here.”

“As a son of my dad’s, it would be weird to be on a different side, but I just want to focus on the performance side of things and have less talk of what we are doing outside of the track than actual performance. We have a great car and look forward to a great year.

“Everyone in general, even if you have arguments or not, there are always things that can be worked out.”

While Verstappen is committed to Red Bull until 2028, speculation has mounted regarding a potential move to Mercedes in light of Hamilton’s surprise transition to Ferrari in 2025. Verstappen acknowledges the unpredictability of life and Formula 1, asserting, “You never know in general life what happens.” However, he expresses contentment with Red Bull’s performance and affirms his satisfaction with the team.

As the season progresses, Verstappen remains resolute in his commitment to Red Bull Racing but acknowledges the dynamic nature of the sport, leaving the door slightly ajar for unforeseen developments in the future.