It’s been a while since Jos Verstappen was spotted in the paddock, but he is indeed present in the run-up to the Monaco GP. The former Formula 1 driver has frequently expressed his dissatisfaction with his son’s team, Red Bull, following their difficult start to the season. However, after Max Verstappen‘s victory in Imola, he sees things in a slightly more positive light. Yet, he warns, after a challenging qualification in the principality, that Red Bull also needs to take a good look at itself.
“Perhaps it was good that I wasn’t there for a while, also for my own state of mind,” Jos Verstappen joked to De Telegraaf. “Two days later, of course, you look at certain things differently, although sport is often also about emotion. I just want the best for Max. And if that doesn’t work out, Red Bull also needs to take a look in the mirror.”
Christian Horner
In recent weeks, there have also been rumors that Jos Verstappen was absent from his son’s Grands Prix due to his strained relationship with Christian Horner. When asked, he admitted that the two are not best friends, but there is also no mutual feud. “We shouldn’t go on holiday together,” he laughed. “But I don’t work for the team and he is the team boss, so there must be mutual respect – and there is.”
“Indeed, a lot has happened, but that doesn’t matter anymore,” Jos Verstappen continued. “I am straightforward and say what I think. They just have to take that into account. I’m not going to change. Not for anyone. I think I am more than just the ‘father of’. Max, Raymond (Vermeulen, manager) and I always discuss everything.” Looking at Red Bull’s current form, the 53-year-old driver is cautiously optimistic. “It certainly looks more positive,” he concluded. “Monaco is of course a bit of an odd one out – I think we will see in Barcelona where Red Bull really stands.”
