Brundle: Horner's Exit Was a 'Pivotal Point' for a 'More Relaxed' Verstappen

Martin Brundle observes that Max Verstappen appeared 'a lot more relaxed' following Christian Horner's dismissal from Red Bull, marking a 'pivotal point' in the Dutch driver's season. This newfound calm, Brundle suggests, coincided with Red Bull's significant performance upswing in the latter half of 2024, which nearly fueled a stunning championship comeback. Despite the off-track changes, Verstappen reportedly maintains regular contact with his former team principal.

Why it matters:

The internal drama at Red Bull, including Horner's investigations and public clashes with Jos Verstappen, was a significant distraction that permeated the entire team. A stable and focused environment is critical for a driver operating at the absolute limit, where mental clarity directly translates to on-track performance. Verstappen's resurgence after the summer break demonstrates how quickly a team can rebound once off-track turbulence is resolved, reaffirming his status as a title contender even amidst adversity.

The details:

• Horner's Departure: Christian Horner was removed as team principal immediately after the British Grand Prix, ending an 18-month period of intense internal scrutiny and conflict that included public threats from Jos Verstappen that the team would "explode."
• Second-Half Surge: Post-summer break, Verstappen won six Grands Prix and finished every race on the podium, cutting a 104-point deficit to just two points by the season's end in Abu Dhabi.
• The Spain Incident: Brundle also highlighted Verstappen's collision with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix as a key moment. The resulting 10-second penalty cost Verstappen 11 points, a decisive margin in the tight championship fight.
• Verstappen's Reflection: The Dutchman later admitted the Barcelona move was a "mistake," driven by his refusal to drive at "80 per cent" and his intense desire to always give his all, even when the car was struggling.

Looking Ahead:

With the team now under the leadership of Laurent Mekies and the off-track drama subsided, Red Bull appears to have a more stable foundation moving forward. Verstappen's candid self-assessment of his mistakes, particularly in Spain, suggests a maturing champion who is learning to channel his intense competitive drive more effectively. If the team can maintain this calmer environment and continue to develop the car, Verstappen will remain a formidable force in the championship battle for years to come.