Max Verstappen has dismissed claims that his father, Jos Verstappen, is working against him as “nonsense” following a turbulent year for the duo. Despite securing another Formula 1 world title, Max Verstappen found himself addressing accusations about his father’s role and influence within the Red Bull team.
Jos Verstappen’s Criticism Sparks Controversy
Jos Verstappen faced scrutiny for his outspoken remarks, including pointed comments about Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. Critics suggested Jos’s behavior could jeopardize his son’s success, but Max Verstappen strongly refuted such claims.
Speaking to De Telegraaf, Verstappen defended his father’s actions, emphasizing Jos’s ability to assess situations quickly and accurately.
“That is nonsense,” Verstappen said regarding claims his father acted out of self-interest. “My father sees the bigger picture very quickly. And that certain things that happen have an influence on the future of me and the team. Some people from outside may not see that.”
Internal Tensions at Red Bull
Despite Max’s defense, Red Bull endured a challenging season marked by internal strife. Jos Verstappen’s exclusion from a celebratory event in Austria, coupled with public clashes between him and Horner, heightened tensions. Max Verstappen often found himself acting as a mediator amid the disputes.
However, Verstappen’s ability to remain focused helped him secure another championship title. Yet, he acknowledged that ongoing issues within the team could threaten future success if left unresolved.
Challenges Ahead for Verstappen and Red Bull
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Verstappen admitted that Red Bull must address its internal and performance-related challenges to stay competitive.
“When things were very unsettled around the team, we still had the fastest car. Fortunately. Otherwise it would have been a lot more difficult, for everyone,” Verstappen said.
“Since the race in Miami, early May, there have only been very few races in which I have had the fastest car. And yet I have still managed to pull ahead since then. I am proud of how we as a team have dealt with the difficult races and often still got the most out of them.”
Focus on Performance Improvements
Verstappen acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, particularly in areas like kerb handling, bumpy tracks, and slow corners. He stressed the importance of resolving these issues to maintain their competitive edge.
“If we continue like this, I will not be champion next year. It is that simple. We really have to make steps to be competitive next season. We all know that.
“I trust that the team can fix the balance problems of last season. And certain things that we could not change last year will be changed for next year.
“We know that it has to be better over the kerbs, bumps and in the slow corners. Those are generally our weak points. If we are still beaten, it will be on the basis of pure speed.”
Conclusion
Max Verstappen remains confident in Red Bull’s ability to address its weaknesses and sustain its dominance. Despite the controversies surrounding Jos Verstappen’s remarks, Max maintains his father’s intentions are aligned with his success. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Red Bull to see if they can overcome their challenges and secure another world title.
