The world of Formula 1 is more than just roaring engines and strategic pit stops; It is also a story of human emotions and personal sacrifice. Jos Verstappen, former driver and father of world champion Max Verstappen, recently spoke frankly about his absence at various races at the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season. In an interview withDe TelegraafOn May 28, 2025, he said that his wife has health problems, so he stayed at home instead of supporting his son in the paddock. This personal unveiling, combined with his reflections on the problems of Red Bull and his relationship with team boss Christian Horner, has become deep.
Jos Verstappen, a constant factor during Max’s career, was remarkably absent in races such as the Grand Prix of China, where Max was only fourth – a rare setback for the triple world champion. Jos explained that his absence was not only due to the health of his wife, but also to his own mental well -being. “Wife, I am sick and I want to be with her,” he said. “Everyone knows that I no longer have the same passion for Formula 1 as before.” The pressure of Red Bulls changeable performance, especially after a dominant 2023, began to take its toll. “Maybe it was a good thing that I wasn’t there, even for my own mental condition,” he added. His honesty about the mental challenges of participating in the sport offers a rare glimpse into the human side of Formula 1.
De teleurstellende race in China, waar Lando Norris van McLaren de zege pakte, onderstreepte de problemen van Red Bull met de RB21. Jos merkte op dat zijn afwezigheid hem in staat stelde om het team met een frisse blik te bekijken. “Na twee dagen zie je de dingen anders”, zei hij. “Sport draait om emoties, maar ik wil alleen het beste voor Max. Als het niet goed gaat, moet Red Bull naar zichzelf kijken.” His words reflect a growing frustration about the inconsistency of the team, especially after the departure of key figures such as Adrian Newey. Toch blijft Jos’ prioriteit duidelijk: het welzijn van zijn zoon en zijn gezin, zelfs boven de chaos van de Formule 1.
De relatie tussen Jos en Christian Horner, de teambaas van Red Bull, is al jaren een twistpunt. In 2024 bereikten de spanningen een hoogtepunt toen Jos het vertrek van Horner eiste na een controverse rond zijn gedrag. De situatie lijkt nu echter gestabiliseerd. “We hoeven niet samen op vakantie te gaan”, zei Jos glimlachend. “Maar ik werk niet voor het team, en hij is de baas. Er moet wederzijds respect zijn, en dat is er nu.” Deze verzoening, hoe broos ook, toont Jos’ bereidheid om persoonlijke verschillen opzij te zetten voor Max’ succes. On X, fans reflected on this development, with @f1insider_NL who wrote: “Jos and Horner buried the battle ax. Good for Max and Red Bull.”
Jos is carefully optimistic about the Grand Prix of Spain, which takes place on 1 June 2025. He sees the race in Barcelona as a crucial test for Red Bull after the challenging streets of Monaco, where Max had difficulty keeping up with McLaren. “Monaco is a unique circuit, but Barcelona will show where Red Bull really is,” said Jos. “The performance seems to improve, but we have to wait.” His trust reflects the hope that Red Bull can close the backlog at McLaren, especially with the upcoming rule changes around the flexibility of the front wing that may work to their advantage.
Jos ’candid update about the health of his wife has unleashed a flood of statements of support. On X wrote @maxfannl: “Strength for Jos and his wife. Family goes for everything.” His decision to give his family priority and at the same time continue to support Max, underlines the delicate balance between personal and professional obligations. While Red Bull is fighting for the title position, Jos’ story recalls that even in the fast world of Formula 1 humanity and family come first. De Paddock is looking forward to his return and hopes that both the health of his wife and the performance of Red Bull will improve in the coming races.
