Christian Horner reveals his hidden loyalties in the Max Verstappen vs. Sergio Perez civil war ahead of the Monaco GP

The championship battle looks like a Red Bull's intra team battle and Chrisitan Horner gives his verdict on where he stands regarding it.

Christian Horner reveals his hidden loyalties in the Max Verstappen vs. Sergio Perez civil war ahead of the Monaco GP

Christian Horner with his drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez (Credits: MARCA)

The Red Bull Racing’s team principal Christian Horner picks his side for the Max Verstappen vs. Sergio Perez duel as the Formula 1 crown jewel, Monaco, gears up for an intense battle. Red Bull Racing, the season’s dominant force, has its drivers commanding the standings, with Max Verstappen now holding a 14-point cushion. With other teams failing to stay up, it’s becoming evident that the title contest will likely be an internal affair between Verstappen and Perez.

Christian Horner appreciates the talent and form displayed by his drivers and remains impartial for the title clash. “They’re both in great shape. The 4 1-2 finishes, five victories that we’ve achieved so far this year have been phenomenal. So they’re both at the top of their game. It’s a great situation. Great dynamic for the team to have,” the Briton said.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boZY5dQdTck

The Red Bull duo’s relationship has been somewhat strained since last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix, and tensions flared once again at the Saudi Arabian GP due to the fastest lap controversy. Despite these minor clashes, Red Bull has emerged victorious in every race this season, with Max Verstappen securing three wins and Sergio Perez claiming two.

Street circuits have played a significant role in this year’s schedule, with five out of the first six races taking place on such tracks. Verstappen and Perez have triumphed in two of the four street races. Verstappen emerged victorious at Albert Park and Miami, while Perez showcased his skills in the Saudi Arabian and Azerbaijan Grands Prix. Therefore, the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix is set to be a showdown to determine the true “Street King” of the season.

Discover: Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez admit skill-demanding Monaco GP might be ‘more difficult’ for Red Bull

Christian Horner asserts all the races are equally important for Sergio Perez’s title charge, not just Monaco 

Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen at the Azerbaijan GP
Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen at the Azerbaijan GP podium (Credits: Morning Express)

When asked about the importance of the Monaco race and its potential impact on the championship battle, Horner tactfully replied, “They’re all important, aren’t they? He did a great job here last year, and strategically, we were sharp on the pit wall in changeable conditions, and we might get some of that on Sunday.” The Mexican won the race last year and wished to repeat it to stop his teammate from running away with a huge lead.

Confidence and familiarity with the car will be paramount in Monaco. Horner believes that having the courage to navigate the turns and with overtaking near impossible, Qualifying is the key. He emphasized, “It’s a matter of being at one with the car, having the confidence to run close to the barriers and get every bit of performance out. And the majority of the weekend is dictated by tomorrow afternoon in quali.”

The Monaco Grand Prix will not only be a test of driving prowess but also a platform to settle the tensions between Verstappen and Perez. With their previous clashes in mind, the race at Monaco will provide an opportunity to determine who truly reigns as the street circuit king. As the two Red Bull drivers go head-to-head on the challenging streets of Monte Carlo, fans and pundits alike eagerly await the outcome of this captivating battle.

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