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Red Bull CEO Mintzlaff is done with Wolff interfering: 'To do with respect'
- Nicole Mulder
Since Adrian Newey announced his departure from Red Bull Racing, there has been much speculation about a possible exodus from the Austrian Formula One team. Oliver Mintzlaff, chief executive of Red Bull's sports branch, says he does not fear that Max Verstappen will also leave the team early.
Red Bull CEO Mintzlaff does not fear Verstappen's departure
Mintzlaff says he has no fear that Verstappen will follow in Newey's footsteps. "He is a thoroughbred racer and wants to win every race, every qualifying and every training session. This connects us. It’s in his and our DNA. And he finds the perfect conditions for this with us. We have created a unique setup, built the best car in Formula 1," he said in a conversation with Bild.
The Red Bull chief also points to Verstappen's contract, which runs until the end of 2028. "Max still has a long-term contract here and hasn't said a word that he doesn't want to fulfill it. I'm not at all worried that he's considering a move. Things just have to calm down again now. That’s what Max wants – and that’s what we want too. You also need that if you want to be successful in the long term in sport, whether in football or Formula 1," he continued.
Mintzlaff done with Wolff
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, meanwhile, is openly flirting with Verstappen, clearly stating that he wants him in his team after Lewis Hamilton left for Ferrari. Mintzlaff is beginning to find this interference somewhat annoying, although he also understands where this is coming from.
"I understand the pressure that Toto Wolff and perhaps other teams have after years of being behind. But I think Toto Wolff should concentrate on his challenges. He's had enough of that. And it also has something to do with respect when I keep talking about the personnel of other teams. That's not right," he says firmly.
'No reason for Verstappen to leave'
Mintzlaff says he sees no reason for Verstappen to want to leave for Mercedes. "At least I can't think of any. Like I said, Max wants the fastest car. We have this. Max wants to become world champion. With us he has the best chances. And Max is a loyal guy. He knows that Christian Horner and Helmut Marko (motorsport boss; editor) have always placed their trust in him. He appreciates that. In addition, Red Bull is simply a great brand that he can extremely identify with. So there are many reasons for staying – and none against it," Mintzlaff said.