Max Verstappen has spoken out in response to recent remarks made by McLaren’s CEO, Zak Brown, regarding the atmosphere at Red Bull Racing. Brown described the team as “toxic” amid growing tension within the Red Bull camp. Verstappen, who currently leads the Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship, finds these comments unfounded and has chosen to distance himself from the controversy.
Red Bull’s dominance, which began in 2022 with the reintroduction of ground effect regulations, seems to be showing cracks in 2024. The team, led by Christian Horner, has been under scrutiny after an internal investigation involving alleged misconduct by Horner. Although Horner was cleared and the employee in question left the team, the drama surrounding Red Bull has only escalated. Key figures like Chief Technology Officer Adrian Newey and Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley have announced their departures, further fuelling speculation about internal turmoil.
Additionally, reports of friction between Horner and Senior Advisor Helmut Marko, along with Verstappen’s father Jos, have surfaced throughout the season. Amid these ongoing tensions, Zak Brown was quick to criticize Red Bull, labeling the environment within the team as unstable and “toxic.”
Despite these external opinions, Verstappen remains unfazed. In an interview with motorsport.com, he expressed his amusement at the persistent rumors, dismissing them as part of the sport. “People always come up with different stories,” Verstappen remarked. “I find it really bizarre how they think up these things, but it’s all part of the game. I’ve been in F1 for 10 years now, and I’m not going to waste my time on these stories.” He added that he pays little attention to the media, only occasionally hearing about comments from others.
When specifically asked about Brown’s critique, Verstappen responded that everyone should focus on their own teams instead of criticizing others. “It’s not directed only at Zak Brown; it’s for everyone,” he clarified. “People need to focus on their own teams, and that’s what I’m doing too.”
As the 2024 Formula 1 season nears its final stages, with six races remaining, the rivalry between Red Bull and McLaren is intensifying. Fans are eager to see how this dynamic unfolds, with the next showdown set for the United States Grand Prix on October 20.