Christian Horner holds 'no regrets' over Qatar conduct

Horner, Red Bull, Qatar — Photo: © LAT Images

Qatar Grand Prix

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Horner holds 'no regrets' over Qatar conduct

Horner received an official warning from the stewards for his comments towards a marshal

Ian Parkes & Sam Hall

Monday 22 November 2021 10:35

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner claimed he has 'no regrets' over his conduct at the Qatar Grand Prix despite being officially warned by the FIA on Sunday.

In the lead-up to F1's first race in Qatar, Horner accused his Mercedes counterpart Toto Wolff of buckling under pressure and questioned the legality of the Silver Arrows' rear wing.

Following a confusing yellow flag situation at the end of qualifying that resulted in Max Verstappen receiving a five-place grid penalty for ignoring double-waved yellows, Horner seemingly blamed a "rogue marshal" during an interview, a comment that landed him in hot water with the FIA.

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Clarifying he had "not used the word cheating" with regard to Mercedes, Horner confirmed he has no regrets over his handling of the weekend.

"I believe in my team, I'm a straight talker," stated Horner. "I've always conducted myself in that manner.

"I'm not an overly emotional person. I don't rant at cameras.

"I think the way I've conducted myself, I've no issues with. I'd do exactly the same.

"The only issue was, with regard to any marshal, whether there was any personal offence for referencing a rogue yellow flag. It was not intended at any individual.

"I don't know if you heard the interview I gave on Sunday but I don't think it was unreasonable."

Lewis Hamilton's victory saw Verstappen's lead in the drivers' championship shrink to eight points although, after Valtteri Bottas retired and Sergio Perez finished fourth, Red Bull gained ground in the constructors' with just five points between the rival teams.

Asked if the pressure was starting to get to him, Horner replied frankly: "No, not at all.

"Watch the interview, make your own opinion.

"Did you feel I was rude? Everybody has a right to an opinion. I gave an opinion."