Verstappen on Ferrari: "Fighting for fifth or sixth makes no sense"

Max Verstappen, who recently extended his contract with Red Bull for four seasons, reiterated his focus on winning in a Sky UK interview. Despite a challenging season, he secured a dominant victory in the recent Bahrain Grand Prix. His renewed commitment to the Austrian team underscores his ambition to reclaim the top spot. "Red Bull is a second family to me, and the challenge of rebuilding is what motivates me," he stated.

A Blow to Ferrari

Verstappen also commented on the potential return of Christian Horner, formerly Red Bull's team principal. "He has proven his capability. Of course, there are many rumors, and I don't know how much truth there is to them. I don't mean to be rude, but it's not a problem or a concern for me. He wants to return, and if a good opportunity arises, I'm sure he will, though I don't know where that would be." When asked if he had ever considered a move to Ferrari, the Dutchman responded directly: "I have immense respect for the brand. But if it means committing only to fight for fifth or sixth place, what's the point?"

English Translation:

"I just want to win." Max Verstappen, who recently renewed his contract with Red Bull for four seasons, repeated this sentiment in an interview picked up by Sky UK. The four-time world champion is not having an easy season, but he found his winning form again with a splendid victory in the last GP in Bahrain. The extension with the Austrian team confirms his desire to reclaim everything: "Red Bull is a second family to me, and the challenge of rebuilding is what motivates me."

Verstappen also commented on the possible return of Christian Horner, who was Red Bull's team principal until last year: "He has proven he did a good job. Of course, there are many rumors circulating, and I don't know how much truth there is. I don't want to sound rude, but it's not a problem or a concern that affects me. He wants to return, and if a good opportunity presents itself, I'm sure he will, although I don't know where that will happen." Then, when asked if he had ever considered moving to Ferrari, the Dutchman replied without mincing words: "I have absolutely great respect for the brand. But if it means committing to then find myself fighting for fifth or sixth place, what's the sense in that?"