Red Bull’s Christian Horner insists criticism of Max Verstappen has not affected world champion

Red Bull chief Christian Horner claims world champion Max Verstappen has not been fazed by the criticism towards him and the handling of the hugely controversial title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last year, insisting ‘it’s gone completely over his head’.

Verstappen, 24, clinched his first ever Formula One title triumph in controversial style at the Yas Marina Circuit on the final race day of last season.

Lewis Hamilton had all but secured his record-breaking eighth world title until Williams driver Nicholas Latifi crashed with four laps to go, resulting in the safety car.

Christian Horner has insisted criticism of Max Verstappen’s world title win has not affected him

Verstappen, 24, is not letting the furore affect him and is ready to defend his world title

When the race restarted, Verstappen was allowed to have a shootout with Hamilton on the final lap, having been able to pit for fresh tyres without losing track position. 

He also gained from race director Michael Masi’s other decision to unlap the cars between Hamilton and Verstappen, but not any other lapped cars.

The Dutchman, on his new tires, had the pace to overtake his rival and win one of the most dramatic Formula One races ever. Masi, however, has since been sacked over his controversial calls.

Speaking to BBC Breakfast, Horner claimed Verstappen has not be affected by any comments made towards him following the race in Abu Dhabi and is ready to challenge once again.

‘I think it’s gone completely over his head. He doesn’t watch the BBC. He was delighted to get that first world championship, against such a strong opponent. I think that’s what made it so intense’, Horner said on Max’s response.

The Red Bull chief also pinpointed the rivalry between both Verstappen and Hamilton.

Horner celebrates with the Dutchman after he secured the trophy in Abu Dhabi last December

Brit Lewis Hamilton is ready to challenge next season and is keen to secure his eighth triumph

‘I think the rivalry between those two [Max and Lewis] has been so intense. I think you might see a couple of other drivers come into that fray as well.

‘It was epic last year and if that continues I think there’s going to be some fantastic races next season. The sport has never had so much coverage and so much support – it’s great to see.’

Following the incident last December, race director Masi has been sacked, but Horner has since backed him insisting the decision to dismiss him was ‘harsh’.

The new F1 season gets underway on March 20 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.