The protagonists of the civil war that engulfs Red Bull Racing have taken the first step towards peace with the aim of uniting against their usual enemy: Mercedes.
The Formula 1 champions are embroiled in a power struggle with team principal Christian Horner at the centre of the conflict. The 50-year-old, who has been at the helm of Formula 1 since 2005, has been fighting for his task for six weeks.
It all started with a complaint filed by a colleague that, following an investigation through an external KC, was ignored by parent company Red Bull. However, the whistleblower, who has since been suspended, has replaced his lawyers and plans to appeal the decision. .
And Horner has other tough enemies against him. Jos Verstappen, father of Team Max’s star driver, has publicly called for Horner’s replacement, while team advisor Helmut Marko has also covered up his opposition to his old colleague after a dispute.
The internal war overshadowed the team’s strong start to defend its name. Verstappen won both races, edged out by teammate Sergio Perez, giving Red Bull a 38-point lead over nearest rival Ferrari.
But Mirror Sport understands that the first steps towards a complicated breakout have already been taken. Discussions have taken place this week between the main parties involved in a bid to unify the team and prevent the internal war from affecting performance on track.
Despite their differences, Horner, Verstappen Sr. and Marko have a common interest in coming together, ensuring Verstappen Jr. finishes the year as a four-time world champion. It is understood that they have agreed to a public ceasefire, for the time being. to help make that happen.
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And while it’s a common interest, they also have a common enemy. Mercedes could make the most of a situation where Verstappen leaves Red Bull, given that he would have what would be a driving position when Lewis Hamilton leaves for Ferrari at the end of the year.
Team principal Toto Wolff has stirred the pot in jest when asked about the scenario in recent weeks and made it clear that he would be very interested in bringing Verstappen into the team if the opportunity arose.
Meanwhile, there have also been indications that Aston Martin could be a potential destination for the Dutchman if he terminates his contract. Red Bull’s goal is to remain its star engine and Horner, but, now that the team boss has the backing of the company’s Austrian CEOs and its majority shareholder, Chalerm Yoodivhya, it is the Briton who occupies the most powerful position.
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