The tension between Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has reignited as Horner addressed claims that he failed to support Susie Wolff during the investigation saga that rocked Formula 1 earlier this season. Toto Wolff, whose wife Susie was embroiled in the controversy, had previously accused Horner of refusing to show solidarity with her, but Horner has now hit back, calling the allegations both surprising and unfounded.
Toto’s Allegation and Horner’s Rebuttal
In a recent interview, Wolff alleged that Horner was the only team principal who declined to sign a document supporting Susie Wolff during the FIA’s investigation into the couple. The accusation suggested Horner had distanced himself from the issue, leaving the Wolffs without unanimous backing from the paddock.
Horner, however, was quick to dismiss the claims.
“Toto sent me a message at the end of last year thanking me for defending Susie and showing that the teams were united. I was surprised by his recent comments because he personally thanked me for my support,” Horner remarked.
The Red Bull boss also pointed out that he had refrained from engaging in the inflammatory remarks made by Wolff and McLaren CEO Zak Brown during the controversy, emphasizing his focus on avoiding distractions.
“I never said a word. I didn’t bite at Zak’s bait, nor did I engage with Toto’s provocations. Frankly, Toto should focus on his team’s performance rather than worrying about me.”
A History of Controversies
This exchange comes amidst lingering tensions from the tumultuous start to the 2024 F1 season, when both Horner and Wolff were at the center of an FIA investigation. While Horner was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing, he expressed frustration at how his rivals sought to capitalize on his vulnerable position.
“What disappointed me the most was how some rival teams tried to take advantage. When I was on the ground, Toto tried to hit me—so did others. They used the situation for their own benefit,” Horner stated, reflecting on the competitive and often ruthless nature of Formula 1.
The Red Bull chief added that while he understands the cutthroat tactics in the sport, he found the approach from certain individuals “disappointing” and “unsurprising, given the people involved.”
Mercedes’ Struggles and Horner’s Perspective
Horner also took the opportunity to redirect attention to Mercedes’ ongoing challenges.
“Since 2021, Mercedes has had a horrible time by their own standards. They haven’t been competitive, and Lewis decided to leave the team. I think Toto has enough problems with his own camp to focus on rather than trying to drag me into unnecessary drama.”
This comment not only highlighted Mercedes’ struggles but also served as a pointed reminder of the competitive pressures Wolff faces as the team continues to navigate a difficult era.
A Season Full of Drama
As the 2024 F1 season nears its conclusion, the sport has been rife with controversies both on and off the track. While the Wolff-Horner rivalry remains a subplot, the focus is now on the championship battles and how teams like Red Bull and Mercedes are positioning themselves for the 2025 season.
With both team principals making bold statements, the unresolved tension between two of the sport’s most influential figures ensures that the drama off-track will continue to match the excitement on it.