Horner after retirement Max: 'Really frustrating to get a DNF'

Published on 24 March 2024 by Coen Versteeg

Max Verstappen had a disappointing Australian Grand Prix. Already in the opening phase of the race, Max had to retire with brake problems. Oracle Red Bull Racing teammate Sergio Perez did manage to cross the finish line in fifth place.

Speaking afterwards, Christian Horner, team boss and CEO of Red Bull Racing, said about the race: “Our first DNF since 2022 which coincidently was also here in Melbourne. It was not the race we were looking to run. Firstly with Max’s car it was obviously really disappointing to have that brake issue. I think actually from the start of the Grand Prix, it felt like the brakes were locked on which obviously created an issue as it is effectively like having the handbrake on throughout the race. And then with Checo, we picked up some floor damage, he lost quite a lot of downforce from the underside of the car and we just became hard on the tyre which is very unusual for us. So yeah, really frustrating to get our first DNF in two years, a lot to understand from that race but disappointing to be leaving here with just a bit less than usual. Huge respect for Carlos though, coming back from surgery and putting in a drive like that is remarkable. It was a great performance from him and Ferrari, they took their opportunity and got the result they deserved.”