Red Bull have released a statement explaining the controversial ending to the Brazilian Grand Prix involving Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.
In the latter stages of last Sunday’s race at Interlagos, Perez was told to move aside for Verstappen in an attempt to salvage some more points from an disappointing weekend.
However, having failed to pass Fernando Alonso for fifth place, the 2022 champion was ordered to let his teammate back through, given that Perez is fighting for second in the standings.
But Verstappen refused, angrily telling his team: ‘I told you already last time… don’t ask that again to me, are we clear about that? I gave my reasons and I stand by it.’
Perez rebutted post-race, saying: ‘This shows who [Verstappen] really is. After all I’ve done for him, I’m disappointed, to be honest. I think if he has two championships, it’s thanks to me.’
Verstappen’s actions and comments have drawn widespread criticism from within the Formula One community.
Both drivers held talks with Christian Horner to clear the air, with the Red Bull boss later declaring that the matter was now water under the bridge and claiming that Verstappen would help Perez clinch second place in required.
Now, ahead of this weekend’s season finale in Abu Dhabi, Red Bull have issued a statement clarifying the events in Brazil and defending Verstappen’s actions, saying: ‘As a team we made some mistakes in Brazil.
‘We had not envisaged the situation that unfolded on the last lap and we had not agreed a strategy for such a scenario before the race. Regretfully, Max was only informed at the final corner of the request to give up position without all the necessary information being relayed.
‘This put Max, who has always been an open and fair team player, in a compromising situation with little time to react which was not our intention. Following the race Max spoke openly and honestly, allowing for both drivers to resolve any outstanding issues or concerns.
‘The Team accept Max’s reasoning, the conversation was a personal matter which will remain private between the team and no further comment will be made.’
Red Bull also went onto say that they had received a tonne of online abuse following the race, something that has become all too common in F1 over the past couple of years.
They added: The abusive online behaviour towards Max, Checo, the Team and their respective families is shocking, saddening and completely unacceptable.
‘There is no place for it in racing or society as a whole and we need to do and be better. Death threats, hate mail, vitriol towards extended family members is deplorable. The abuse needs to stop.’
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