SPIELBERG, AUSTRIA – JUNE 27: Max Verstappen from the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing, race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase, and Jos Verstappen chat in the garage during the previews of the Austrian Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring on June 27, 2024 in Spielberg, Austria. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
In a twist of events, Verstappen has finally been persuaded to confirm that he is not leaving the team, despite rumors surrounding Christian Horner’s ‘sexting’ scandal, Adrian Newey’s departure, and the team’s chaotic season. While they may no longer have the advantage they enjoyed over their rivals last year, McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari have closed the gap. However, Red Bull is still winning with Verstappen, and in the end, that’s what matters.
A notable development is that Jos Verstappen was seen in the Red Bull garage today, chatting with Max and his engineer Gianpiero Lambiase. This suggests that tensions between Jos and Horner have been resolved, or perhaps they have decided to put their differences aside for the home Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring. It is worth mentioning that Jos previously stated that “Red Bull will explode” and that Horner should be removed from his position.
It seems that a lot has changed since then. The topic of Verstappen’s future beyond 2025 was raised during the FIA-organized Formula 1 drivers’ press conference at the Red Bull Ring, which featured the presence of the three-time Formula 1 world champion. When asked about the dispute between Horner and Wolff for his services, Verstappen responded by emphasizing the importance of having a competitive car in the future. He mentioned that the team is working well together to improve and that they are already focused on next year to ensure competitiveness. This response seemed to deflect from the question at hand.
When asked if he would consider leaving Red Bull if they were to fail in the near future, Verstappen dismissed the idea, stating that’s not how Formula 1 works. He expressed his satisfaction with the team and his long-term contract. Verstappen also mentioned that they are already working on implementing changes to the car for next year, further indicating his commitment to Red Bull. His contract with the team extends until the end of 2028.
In a positive development for Red Bull, they will be welcoming Ford as a new partner in 2026. In light of this news, it was pertinent to inquire about Verstappen’s involvement in integrating the new partner. In response, Verstappen clarified that he is not responsible for the engine project, but emphasized the importance of understanding the basic concepts and direction of the project.
“The team has gathered a great number of talented individuals,” revealed Verstappen. “And honestly, all I can say about it is that everyone is giving their best to ensure the engine is as fast as possible. I enjoy being part of the discussions. It’s an incredibly exciting project for the whole team.
“I have full confidence that everyone is doing their utmost. We’ll have to wait and see how things unfold. However, based on what I witnessed at the factory during my visits, they have all the necessary resources to make it a success. I hope it will be.”
Interestingly, up until this point in the press conference, there has been no direct answer to the question that Ben Hunt raised once again: “Will you continue to drive for Red Bull next year?”
Finally, Verstappen responded: “Did you not understand that from my previous answer? Right, yes. But that’s what I meant. We are already working on next year’s car as well, you know. Yes, I believe that when you are fully focused on it, it means you are also driving for the team.”
A simple statement like “I will be a Red Bull driver next year” would have been enough as an answer, but he made it complicated. No wonder the speculation persists, especially if Mercedes (for example) starts consistently outperforming Red Bull. Keep an eye on this situation!
© 2024
Portugal wins the Euro Cup in an exciting final against France
On Sunday, the Portuguese national football team made history by winning the Euro Cup in a thrilling final against France. With a goal from Cristiano Ronaldo in the final minutes of regular time, Portugal won 1-0 and became European champions for the first time in history.
The game was played at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon and had the presence of thousands of passionate fans. From the beginning, both teams showed a lot of determination and desire to win, creating several goal-scoring opportunities.
However, it was only in the 89th minute that Cristiano Ronaldo scored the goal that would secure the victory for Portugal. With a precise shot from outside the box, the Portuguese star left the French goalkeeper with no chance of defense and made the crowd explode with joy.
After the goal, France still tried to react but couldn’t equalize the score. Portugal held on defensively and secured the victory, driving the fans crazy. It was an exciting and historic final for Portuguese football.
With this achievement, Portugal becomes a powerhouse of European football, showing that it has high-level players and a very well-trained team. Cristiano Ronaldo, as always, was the highlight of the match and showed why he is considered one of the best players in the world.
The celebration of Portuguese fans continued throughout the night, with celebrations throughout the country. Streets were filled with people wearing the colors of the national team, fireworks illuminated the sky, and there were even those who dived into fountains to celebrate the victory.
The conquest of the European Championship is a milestone in the history of Portuguese football and will certainly be remembered by fans forever. Portugal showed its determination and determination, overcoming adversities and becoming champion. Congratulations to the Portuguese national team for this historic achievement!
