“Max benefitted from Charles’ misfortune” – Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is happy to be leading both the championships for the first time in the Mercedes-dominated hybrid era.
Ferrari ultimately proved to be of assistance to Red Bull in their battle against Mercedes. After Charles Leclerc missed out on a race start due to a driveshaft failure, the onus was on Max Verstappen to grab his first Monaco Grand Prix win, which he did. His boss Christian Horner was pleased with the luck and his impressive driving on Sunday.
“Max benefitted from Charles’ misfortune so it was bad luck for them (Ferrari).
“Max really took control of the race from the start and literally controlled the whole afternoon. He was quick when he needed to be and looked after his tyres really well. A phenomenal performance.
“But you have got to feel for Ferrari a bit. Obviously, they made a calculated risk. Max was disappointed that we didn’t get to see what he could have delivered but he dealt with his frustration well. When the opportunity presented itself he took it with both hands.
Sergio Perez complimenting Verstappen well
Horner is also pleased with Sergio Perez, unfortunate to miss out on his first podium for Red Bull. Nevertheless, the duo’s performances have ensured Red Bull lead the Constructors Standings, putting the pressure back on Mercedes, ahead of Baku.
“Also, Checo [Perez] drove a very strong race so a great performance from him as well.
“Mercedes had a rare off-day and it was important to convert that. As a team, we did that.
“We are leading both championships, the first time we have done that in the hybrid era so it is really encouraging.
“Nobody is getting carried away, there is still a long way to go in the championship and to be as close as we are at this stage is very encouraging.”
Also read “Action on the track and also off the track” – Toto Wolff on Max Verstappen vs Lewis Hamilton
