Albon belongs with Hamilton, Vettel - Red Bull

Christian Horner believes that Alexander Albon can leave the Brazilian Grand Prix with pride despite having a podium finish stolen away at the last minute thanks to a collision with Lewis Hamilton, which the Red Bull boss describes as a “huge shame”.

Albon hasn’t finished in the top three in his career as of yet, but seemed poised for his maiden podium at Interlagos, only for a nick from Lewis Hamilton to send him down to 14th as late as the penultimate lap.

The Mercedes man immediately admitted responsibility and apologised for the incident, but Horner thinks it is still unfortunate for Albon after putting in such an impressive performance.

“He looked really comfortable racing world champions and it was a huge shame for him to lose that podium on the penultimate lap,” Horner said of Albon.

"Lewis has obviously put his hand up and apologised but unfortunately it doesn’t get Alex’s podium back, but he can leave here with his head held high.

Brawn credits Verstappen for 'exciting and 'fascinating' restartRead more

“OK, he didn’t get the trophy but he’s impressed the whole team with his performance and again, it’s an encouraging signal for next year.”

Albon started the 2019 F1 campaign with Toro Rosso, but was handed a promotion to Red Bull to replace the underperforming Pierre Gasly (who ended up finishing second in Brazil). It was recently announced that he would remain as Max Verstappen’s partner for 2020, and Horner reckons his improvement behind the wheel is there for all to see.

“I think it’s very clear for everyone to see,” the Red Bull boss added.

"He’s now racing wheel-to-wheel with Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel and Ferraris and he’s making great progress. He’s impressed his whole team with his race craft.”

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

F1 champion to make surprise appearance in 2026 London Marathon

• 40 minutes ago

'They should all be sacked': Aston Martin scolded for major Honda blunder

• 1 hour ago

Mercedes release official statement after disqualification heartbreak

• 2 hours ago

When is the next F1 race? Japanese Grand Prix schedule and details for 2026

• 3 hours ago

Red Bull champion forced to abandon 2026 season due to 'medical issues'

• Today 10:12

F1 News Today: Max Verstappen disqualified after race win as Red Bull ban confirmed

• Today 09:25