Formula 1 Legend Urges Red Bull Principal’s Resignation Amidst Scandal

Renowned Formula 1 icon Johnny Herbert has publicly called for Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, to step down in the wake of recent allegations of “inappropriate behavior.” Despite being cleared of any wrongdoing following an independent investigation, the controversy continues to haunt both Horner and his team, casting a shadow over their promising start to the season, particularly for star driver Max Verstappen.

“It’s not a good thing for F1 with the whole thing going on and the belated heat on it,” he told The Sun. “It doesn’t help the situation for Red Bull who have the best driver in the world at the present time.”

Herbert, a former F1 driver turned Sky Sports pundit, believes that the ongoing fallout from the scandal is detrimental to Red Bull’s image and could potentially jeopardize their relationship with Verstappen, the three-time world champion. 

“And they’re very close to pushing [Max Verstappen] out off the team, I’ve heard they are getting quite close with the deal with Mercedes. It seems like a stupid thing to do, their biggest asset is not the Christian Horner show.”

Expressing his concerns, Herbert emphasized the negative impact of the situation on the team’s performance and hinted at the possibility of Verstappen seeking alternatives, including rumored talks with Mercedes.

The outspoken stance isn’t limited to Herbert alone. Verstappen’s father, Jos, has also been vocal in his criticism, advocating for Horner’s resignation prior to the Bahrain Grand Prix. Moreover, Herbert echoed Jos Verstappen’s sentiments, asserting that it would be “crazy” for Max to depart due to the ongoing turmoil, emphasizing the need for Horner to seriously consider stepping aside.

Herbert added: “It would be crazy for Max to leave because of the situation. Jos has said it will be very destructive and rip it apart and I think it’s gone on for far too long. In some respects, Christian should really think about it and step aside.”

Despite the mounting pressure and speculation surrounding his future, Horner remains adamant about retaining his position, reaffirming his commitment to the team’s success. Addressing the concerns, Horner emphasized the importance of unity within the team and stressed the need to focus on performance on the track, dismissing rumors and maintaining support for Verstappen.

“There are rumblings and I’m aware of what’s been said. Max is an important part of this team. He’s our driver and is doing a good job and as team principal and CEO I’m responsible for the running and operation of this team.”

“Everyone has to do their part. Max is doing their part and everyone else is doing their job. The speculation is obviously rife but the most important thing is the team and focusing on on-track performances.”

As the saga unfolds, attention now turns to the upcoming races, with both Horner’s leadership and Verstappen’s future hanging in the balance amidst the ongoing controversy.