Christian Horner and Max Verstappen engaged in conversation within the confines of the garage.
Christian Horner insists Red Bull “trust” Max Verstappen’s judgment after the driver stayed up until 3am on the Sunday of the Hungarian GP to contest a sim racing event.
During the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, Verstappen and his Team Redline participated in the 24 Hours of Spa event, which commenced on Saturday and concluded on Sunday.
Christian Horner weighs in on Max Verstappen’s late-night sim racing
However, due to one of his teammates being unable to participate in the car rotation, Verstappen had to complete two stints, with the second one lasting until 3am.
What followed later that day was a difficult Hungarian Grand Prix for the Red Bull driver, one marred by testy radio exchanges with his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase as he brought his car home in fifth place.
Verstappen faced criticism from individuals like Sky F1’s David Croft, who consistently highlighted Verstappen’s late-night activities during the race broadcast.
The World Champion expressed his opinion on the matter by stating, “They can all go away”, however, Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has now disclosed that they have had a conversation and agreed that he would refrain from driving simulations late in the future.
Regarding Horner’s perspective on the late-night sim racing, the team boss of Red Bull conveyed to the media that he is fully aware of the necessary factors in a grand prix and we have faith in his assessment.
When informed that it appears Verstappen has complete freedom, the team boss responded by saying that people tend to make assumptions.
More on Max Verstappen’s sim racing stint
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“Max possesses a deep understanding of the essentials, he comprehends the demands of operating a grand prix car and emerging victorious in grand prix races, ultimately achieving the status of a World Champion.”
“Our team always operates cohesively, ensuring that any discussions regarding reproof are handled internally and not through the media.”
Verstappen secured the fifth position at the Hungarian Grand Prix, making it his third race this season where he finished outside the podium.
Horner concedes that it was always expected that Red Bull’s rivals would close the gap on the reigning World Champions, indicating another sign of their progress.
“He said that once the regulations stabilize, the margin gains will gradually become more challenging to obtain, as if entering a curve.”
“That’s completely normal. It’s just how the cycle goes. I’ve been in this industry for 20 years, and that’s exactly what occurs.”
“Now, it doesn’t imply that you should simply embrace it; rather, it signifies that you must put in more effort to discover small improvements, perform well in races, and be at your best. We are aware that we need to enhance our performance in the latter half of the year.”
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