In the wake of the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix, Jos Verstappen has unleashed a barrage of criticism at Red Bull Racing, accusing the team’s management of betraying his son, Max Verstappen. Jos, a former Formula 1 driver and fierce supporter of Max, has voiced his outrage over the FIA penalty that severely impacted Max’s race, transforming what was expected to be a triumphant homecoming into a bitter disappointment.

During the Dutch GP, Max Verstappen, who was in a strong position to lead, was handed a controversial five-second penalty for an “avoidable collision” with another driver. This penalty, viewed as harsh by many fans and commentators, dropped Max from a podium position and ultimately marred his performance at his home race. The fallout from the penalty has ignited widespread debate and frustration among the F1 community.

Jos Verstappen, never one to shy away from defending his son, expressed his anger and disappointment in a candid interview. “They betrayed my son,” Jos declared, his frustration palpable. He criticized Red Bull’s management for what he sees as a lack of robust defense against the FIA’s decision. “The team should have fought harder to support him. This was his home race, and they failed him,” he added.

Jos’s remarks have sent ripples through the Formula 1 world, highlighting ongoing tensions between drivers, teams, and governing bodies. His criticism is directed not only at the FIA but also at Red Bull’s senior leadership, whom he accuses of being too passive in their response to the penalty. “Max has given everything to this team. They should stand by him, especially during moments like this,” Jos stated.

The fallout from the Dutch GP has had a significant effect on Max Verstappen’s championship bid. Although he remains a frontrunner in the standings, the lost points could be pivotal in the tight race for the title. The incident has also cast doubt on Red Bull’s ability to support their star driver effectively during critical moments of the season. With the championship battle heating up and only a few races remaining, the team can ill afford any further missteps.

In response to Jos Verstappen’s criticisms, Red Bull Racing issued a defense, stating that they had done everything possible to support Max. Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged the frustration but emphasized that some decisions were beyond the team’s control. “We always stand by our drivers, but there are instances where outcomes are dictated by external factors,” Horner remarked.

As the 2024 season continues, all eyes will be on the Red Bull camp. Max Verstappen, known for his resilience, will aim to rebound strongly from this setback. However, the Dutch GP’s shadow will linger, influencing not just his championship prospects but also his relationship with the team. Jos Verstappen’s comments underscore the complex dynamics at play as the season heads towards its climax.