Max Verstappen's dad Jos responds to claims he is behind Christian Horner leaks
Jos Verstappen, the father of Red Bull superstar Max, has rubbished claims that he is behind a campaign to force Christian Horner out at the Formula 1 champions.
An investigation into the allegations of "inappropriate behaviour" cleared Horner of misconduct on Wednesday, but alleged text messages and photos - which Mirror Sport has seen - between the Red Bull Racing boss and a colleague were leaked the following day.
The saga overshadowed the build-up to the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, which was comfortably won by Verstappen Jnr on Saturday. It took another twist too, hours after Red Bull's triumph, when the Dutchman's dad warned Red Bull they risk being "torn apart" if Horner remains in his position.
Despite his damning comments, Verstappen Snr has denied any suggestions that he has launched a campaign against Horner. He told Mail Online: "That wouldn't make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?"
The 51-year-old was alluding to the fact that his son has won three successive world titles in a dominant Red Bull car and kickstarted his 2024 bid for glory with a stunning victory in Bahrain. Despite Red Bull's heroics on the track, Verstappen Snr has seemingly suggested that the reigning champions must part ways with Horner, 50, who is married to Spice Girl Geri Halliwell.
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In the same interview with Mail Online, he added: "There is tension here while he remains in position. The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems."
On Wednesday, Horner was exonerated by an independent barrister, who was employed to review the evidence. Horner has maintained his innocence throughout the investigation and hours after the alleged messages and photos were leaked on Thursday, the team boss issued a fresh statement.
He said: "I will not comment on anonymous speculation, but to reiterate I have always denied the allegations. I respected the integrity of the independent investigation and fully cooperated with it every step of the way.
Geri Horner talks with Jos Verstappen in the garage (Getty Images)"It was a thorough and fair investigation conducted by an independent specialist barrister, and it has concluded dismissing the complaint made. I remain fully focused on the start of the season."
In their statement on Wednesday, Red Bull Austria, the team's parent company, said: "The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed. The complainant has a right of appeal. Red Bull is confident that the investigation has been fair, rigorous and impartial.
"The investigation report is confidential and contains the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation, and therefore we will not be commenting further out of respect for all concerned. Red Bull will continue striving to meet the highest workplace standards."
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