Christian Horner’s worst F1 fear may come true as Max Verstappen sent “bullying” warning

Red Bull have strolled to both Formula 1 titles this season virtually unchallenged, but improvements from McLaren as the campaign has progressed have sparked hope of a 2024 title race

McLaren have been tipped to make Christian Horner’s fear about Red Bull’s 2024 title chances come true.

This Formula 1 season has been a relative success for Horner’s team. Red Bull claimed the constructors’ championship with six full weekends of racing remaining, while Max Verstappen claimed the drivers’ title last weekend with five Grands Prix remaining.

But there is a feeling that they are not as far ahead of everyone as they were at the beginning of the season, in terms of car performance. The RB19, at least in Verstappen’s hands, still leads – but the upgraded McLaren MCL60 has emerged as a real challenger in recent weeks.

And they have two excellent, in-form riders leading the race. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have claimed back-to-back podiums in the last two races, although both were consistently beaten by Verstappen.

Sergio Perez’s difficulties have opened up opportunities for McLaren to take full advantage. The Mexican driver is currently going through a miserable time, although at least Red Bull can take solace in knowing that his lack of performance will not cost them this year’s title.

But Horner is fully aware that if Perez cannot regain his best form next season, his team could face more problems. “The most important thing for us is to win both championships,” said the team principal. We have done that. And the most amazing thing after that was having two riders finish first and second.”

You can see Mercedes has a pair, McLaren has a pair, Ferrari has a pretty tight pair between their respective drivers. I think we got it earlier this year. But as the season progressed, the situation became more and more diverse. We just need to get Checo back to the best shape he can be.

We really want him to get back to that form and as a team we need him. We cannot accept a big split because if, as expected, the grid continues to be fit next year, we need both drivers to be at the top of their game.”

F1 commentator Alex Brundle believes that the strong duo at McLaren have what it takes to punish Red Bull and “bully” Verstappen if Perez still struggles next year. “They are used to running in front,” he said of Piastri and Norris when speaking to the BBC’s Checkered Flag podcast.

Also very important. Oscar Piatri and Lando Norris may pose a bit of a problem as they are so close to each other on the track, but it gives them strategic doors in the future. If Sergio Perez fails to find form in this Red Bull match then it will be a two-for-one harassment, right? If McLaren wins, [fight] next year.”