The Formula 1 world is again in turmoil after an unexpected event during the Grand Prix of Hungary.Christian Horner, the former team boss of Red Bull Racing, who was fired a few weeks ago in the midst of internal tensions and controversies, suddenly appeared in the Paddock of the Hungaroring. His presence alone caused a stir, but what followed was even more explosive: oneshockingvan Horner about the performance ofMax VerstappenDuring the GP of Belgium.
According to various media present, Horner spoke with reporters and was remarkably critical of his former Protegé. He said:
“If I was still at the helm, Max would not have tackled the race in Belgium so carelessly. Red Bull is controlled without me, and that starts to take his toll.”
The comment immediately caused tension within the Formula 1 community, but the brightest reaction came from none other thanIf Verstappen, Max’s father and a famous voice in the paddock.
Jos, who had been at odds with Horner for some time, responded furiously:
“Christian no longer has any right to speak. He is gone, and rightly. Max is a triple world champion – he doesn’t need anyone who tells him how to race.”
This verbal clash between Horner and Jos Verstappen sheds new light on the tensions within the Red Bull camp. Since the departure of Horner, there are rumors about power shifts within the team and possible disagreements between the Verstappen clan and the remaining team management.
Despite the fuss, Max Verstappen himself remains remarkably silent about the incident. During a short press conference in Hungary, he only said:
“I concentrate on racing. I leave what happens outside the track to others.”
Red Bull Racing has not given an official commentary on Horner’s appearance or statements. Sources within the team, however, say that they were “surprised and not happy” with his presence in the paddock, especially in view of the fact that his resignation is still the subject of legal and contractual disputes.
The Formula 1 organization itself confirmed that, despite his resignation, Horner still has a paddock pass and therefore has access to the races. Nevertheless, it is expected that his statements will lead to a revision of this policy.
Many analysts and former drivers have since spoken about the incident. Martin Brundle called it “a dangerous distraction for Red Bull in a crucial phase of the championship”, while Damon Hill said:
“Horner plays with fire. He knows how to work media, and this was no coincidence.”
It is clear: the 2025 season not only remains exciting on the track, but also far beyond. Horner’s comeback, if only for a day, fueled the fire in Formula 1.
