Horner: 'Abu Dhabi controversy does not diminish Verstappen's performance'

With just under six weeks to go until the start of the new Formula One season, the season finale in Abu Dhabi continues to stir up emotions. The decisions of race director Michael Masi were heavily criticised, but Christian Horner stands up for the Australian.

Better support for Masi

Horner attended the Autosport Awards ceremony on Sunday evening and was asked there by Sky Sports for his opinion on Masi. In doing so, the Red Bull team boss called for better support for the race management. According to Horner, the teams have much better tools at their disposal than Masi.

However, according to Horner, a lot of attention has been paid to this over the winter by new FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "I think you will see that that role will be better supported, which will hopefully make decisions easier and faster," Horner said. In addition, he also believes that possible simplification of the regulations should be looked at to avoid ambiguities.

Controversy does not affect title Verstappen

All the controversy surrounding the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the decisions taken with the safety car in the final laps does not detract from the performance of Max Verstappen and the team, according to Horner - nor was the joy any less. "We enjoyed winning the title." Horner let it be known that 2021 is history and the focus is now fully on 2022. On Wednesday, February 9, the RB18 will be officially presented.