Christian Horner has responded to comments made by Jos Verstappen, alleging the Red Bull team principal intervened to prevent him participating in the the Legends Parade at the Austrian Grand Prix.
Friday morning in Styria was dominated by speculation that the 50-year-old had moved to prevent the father of his star driver taking part in the Red Bull event, with Jos originally slated to drive the RB8 from 2012.
When questioned on the allegations levied against him, Horner was quick to deny he had or used a “veto” to prevent Jos taking part.Â
The whole episode was triggered by the elder Verstappen peaking to Formule1.nl, in which he remarked: “How childish can you be. There was going to be filming, for example also with a drone, but Horner didn’t want me to be filmed.
“I’m completely finished with Horner. It’s like a kindergarten here. I would have been allowed to ride in the end, but I backed out. I find this so childish of Horner, but I think it says something about him.”
In response, Horner said to media including RacingNews365: “Look, I’ve been made aware. The legends parade is something that is organised by the circuit. There was no veto from my side or anything like that. And I’m sure the legends will be in action later.”
Despite the distraction and unwarrented noise around Red Bull’s home grand prix, Horner was keen to highlight the strength of the relationship he has with his triple-world champion driver, whilst insisting he has not had an issue with the fathers of his drivers in the past.
“Well, the relationship with Max has always been very good, very strong,” Horner said. “He’s a key part of our team and he’s our driver – he’s the one that it’s important to have a strong relationship with.
“I’ve never had an issue with any of our drivers’ fathers in the past and whatever Jos’ issues are, I’ve really got nothing to comment on.”