Max Verstappen, despite reigning as a three-time world champion and showcasing dominance over fellow drivers on the grid, holds a special place in his heart for his father, Jos Verstappen. The Dutch sensation credits Jos as one of the key factors contributing to his flourishing success.
However, some fans have transformed this heartfelt sentiment into criticism, expressing concerns that his father may now develop as a huge obstacle to Verstappen’s career progression.
Max Verstappen wishes Dad Jos a happy birthday!
Max Verstappen has shown a sweet gesture to his father, Jos Verstappen, who was a former motorsports driver before his retirement. However, some fans have converted this car’s expression into a wave of criticism due to the 52-year-old’s mediocre image in the Formula 1 industry.
Me being Lewis Hamilton fan, my advice is to you is keep your father away from Formula One. Bro no matter if Christian Horner had made the mistake he will be rewarded for that, i feel you are doing your best job after what we saw in round one,
— Prajwal G (@Prajwal_G06) March 4, 2024
The father-son duo has spoken in multiple interviews, expressing each other’s importance; however, in some instances, Jos has also spoken about the critical treatment Verstappen had to endure during his childhood for a bright future, which has triggered spectators throughout the world as they labelled it as “abusive” behaviour.
Certain F1 analysts have highlighted Jos’s conduct, suggesting that he seeks to fulfill his own unattained aspirations through his son, which has greatly affected the Red Bull driver, despite him not acknowledging it publicly.
Fans speculate Jos likely to ruin Max Verstappen’s career
Recently, Jos has also expressed negative sentiments towards the Red Bull team’s principal’s tenure at the team. Christian Horner has been the centre of controversy due to his accused behaviour of assaulting his female employee. This has also tarnished the reputation of the Formula One team to some extent. Despite the team boss repeatedly denying the ongoing speculations against him, Jos Verstappen has claimed that the entire team is struggling solely due to one individual, which seemed “unfair” to him.
He's gonna cost you the title with his moves to get power. He should stay home from races.
— Kev (@kevp88) March 4, 2024
However, the media has strongly criticised his viewpoint, pointing to his prior mistreatment of Verstappen as evidence that he is not qualified to question Christian Horner’s decisions. Some have suggested that the 26-year-old should publicly separate himself from his father, cautioning that failing to do so could harm his career prospects.
Do you think Jos was right to speak against Horner despite his son driving under his guidance in Red Bull? Let us know about your opinions in the comment section below.
