Jos Verstappen and Horner now have a relationship based on 'mutual respect'.

      "Perhaps it was beneficial that I was absent for a time."

      Jos Verstappen has expressed that the significant tension between him and Christian Horner, the team boss of Red Bull, has diminished. Last year, the father and co-manager of world champion Max Verstappen became deeply involved in the Horner scandal and the subsequent turmoil at Red Bull. However, Jos, aged 53, has not attended any Grand Prix paddocks since then, up until Monaco.

      "The time away may have been good for me, particularly for my mental well-being," the Dutchman and former F1 driver stated in an interview with De Telegraaf. "In hindsight, you tend to view certain matters from a different perspective, although sports are often driven by emotions. My main concern is Max's success. If that isn’t happening, Red Bull also needs to reflect on itself."

      Jos admits that the intensity of the conflict with Horner has passed. "We don’t need to go on holiday together," he joked, "but I don't work for the team, and he is the team principal, so there has to be mutual respect. And we have that now."

      "A lot has transpired, but that’s in the past," Jos added. "I’m straightforward and express my thoughts. They just have to accept that.

      "I’m not going to change," he asserted. "Not for anyone."

      While some may think Jos should refrain from being deeply involved in his son's professional journey, he disagrees. "I am more than just ‘Max’s father,’" he emphasized. "Max, Raymond (Vermeulen), and I discuss everything."

      Regarding Red Bull's current performance, Jos was concerned prior to Imola but felt reassured afterward, even though Max started and finished fourth in Monaco. "It’s certainly looking more promising," Jos remarked. "Monaco is a bit of an anomaly. I think we will have a clearer understanding of Red Bull’s position in Barcelona."