Horner and Jos Verstappen relationship 'damaged' before Red Bull allegations

Reports have claimed that the relationship between Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen, father of Horner's star driver Max, has taken a hit.

Red Bull recently opened an investigation into accusations of inappropriate behaviour against Horner - accusations he denies - but it's understood that the issues with the older Verstappen are unrelated.

The Brit has been in charge of the Milton Keynes-based outfit since their inception into Formula 1 back in 2005 and has won seven drivers' championships and six constructors' titles with the team in that time.

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In 2023, Horner himself suggested that the team's dominant RB19 was the 'most successful car in F1 history', as star driver Max Verstappen broke multiple records on his way to a third consecutive title.

Verstappen shares a close relationship with his father Jos, who also raced in F1 for eight seasons between 1994-2003, claiming two podiums.

Horner's deteriorating Verstappen relationship

Now, it's being reported that Horner's relationship with the Verstappen family was 'badly damaged', even before these allegations against the 50-year-old were made public.

Dutch publication Motorsport Total.com have said that three-time world champion Verstappen is very loyal to his close circle of friends and family, and that Horner may no longer be a part of that.

"By the way, the fact that the story first leaked in the Netherlands of all places is probably no coincidence," they say.

"Behind the scenes in Formula 1 there are whispers that the personal relationship between Horner and Jos Verstappen is badly damaged.

"And Verstappen Jr. is considered a loyal person whose loyalty lies primarily with two men: his father and Helmut Marko."

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