F1 icon Johnny Herbert has urged Christian Horner to ‘step aside’ to prevent Max Verstappen from switching to Mercedes.
Ex-F1 racer Johnny Herbert has recommended that Christian Horner, the chief of Red Bull, step down due to the scandal threatening the team’s stability and the potential departure of Max Verstappen to Mercedes.
Since early February, Horner has been in the spotlight following accusations of misconduct.
Before the season’s first race in Bahrain, an independent inquiry cleared Horner of any misconduct, appearing to conclude the controversy.
Yet, the situation reignited when supposed evidence from the inquiry, including text messages and photos, was distributed to certified journalists, team leaders, and staff.
The turmoil has continued to overshadow the team, with Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, advising Horner’s exit to prevent further discord. The scrutiny has extended to Helmut Marko, whose role has been questioned.
Speculation about Marko’s possible suspension during the Saudi Arabian race triggered a stern warning from Verstappen, indicating he would leave if Marko did.
Herbert now thinks the current crisis might drive Verstappen away from Red Bull.
Speaking to The Sun, Herbert commented on the negative impact of the situation on F1 and on Red Bull, which he believes houses the current top driver in the sport.
“And they’re very close to pushing [Max Verstappen] out off the team, I’ve heard they are getting quite close with the deal with Mercedes. It seems like a stupid thing to do, their biggest asset is not the Christian Horner show,” he told the British newspaper.
“It would be crazy for Max to leave because of the situation. Jos has said it will be very destructive and rip it apart and I think it’s gone on for far too long. In some respects, Christian should really think about it and step aside.”
