Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has always been known for his candid and sometimes controversial remarks.

After Max Verstappen received his second penalty of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Horner provided a refreshingly honest assessment of the situation, acknowledging that the Dutch driver’s aggressive driving style can sometimes lead to unavoidable incidents on the track.

Verstappen, who has been the dominant force in Formula 1 in recent years, was handed a five-second penalty during the last race for an incident involving a late defensive maneuver.

This penalty was his second of the season, prompting a wave of speculation about whether Verstappen’s confidence and assertiveness are pushing the boundaries of fair racing.

In his post-race interview, Horner didn’t shy away from the issue. He explained that while Verstappen’s driving is aggressive, that same intensity is often what has given him an edge over his competitors.

“Max’s aggressive nature is what sets him apart, but occasionally it leads to these situations. He’s a racer through and through, and sometimes, as we’ve seen, that can put him on the wrong side of the stewards,” Horner said.

The Red Bull chief also highlighted that Verstappen’s second penalty this season wasn’t an indication of a deeper problem but rather an outcome of his racing instinct. He emphasized that Verstappen, like all drivers, is continually learning and adapting. “He’s still evolving as a driver. This is a sport where you always have to adjust and adapt, and Max is no exception.

He takes these things on board and comes back stronger. He has the maturity to understand that penalties are part of the game, and they won’t slow him down.”

Horner’s remarks also shed light on the team’s unwavering support for their star driver. Despite the penalties, Red Bull remain committed to Verstappen as their undisputed leader, recognizing that his aggressive approach to racing often delivers results.

The team principal also pointed out that Verstappen’s tactical intelligence and raw speed far outweigh the occasional penalty, especially given the level of dominance he’s displayed since 2021.

As Verstappen continues to battle rivals such as Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, the pressure to stay ahead will only increase.

With Horner’s honest appraisal of the situation, it’s clear that Red Bull stands firmly behind their driver, confident that his aggressive style, while sometimes controversial, is key to his success and the team’s ongoing dominance in Formula 1.