Horner wants to “recharge over the next couple of months”

After the Milton Keynes-based outfit endured a tough final last at the Yas Marina Circuit, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said that he is intent on “”recharging over the next couple of months.”

Having qualified fifth for the season finale, reigning world champion Max Verstappen started from P4 after inheriting the second-row starting spot from Nico Hulkenberg.

The start saw the Dutch driver have a great getaway, overtaking Carlos Sainz for P3, and he was eager to make it past Piastri into Turn 1 as well. However, his ambitious move resulted in a collision, with the pair spinning around and dropping down the order. The Dutchman ended up sixth in the season-closing race in Abu Dhabi.

His team-mate Sergio Perez started from P10 on the grid, but he endured heartbreak again when Valtteri Bottas tagged the back of his RB20, with the incident sending him into a spin. The Mexican ultimately retired from the race.

Commenting on the Yas Marina round, Horner said: “Firstly, we have to congratulate McLaren, it’s incredibly tough to win a Championship and they have not taken their foot off the gas all season.

“Full credit where it is due, they are deserving of that trophy. For us, in a season where we won nine races, more than any other team and successfully defended the Drivers Championship equates to an exceptional year. Max has been outstanding.

“It’s been a long season with 24 races and none of it would have been possible without the hard work from everyone both here at track and back in Milton Keynes, their continued drive and determination throughout the year was long and relentless, similarly the support from all of our partners, without them none of this would be possible and we are extremely grateful for all that they bring and what we continue to build, equally a special thanks to Honda and their consistency and contribution.

“I would also like to thank our fans, it is because of you that we are here and why we race, there simply wouldn’t be any F1 if it were not for them.

Pre-season controversy

On 5 February, Red Bull confirmed that Christian Horner was facing an investigation following allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague.

The complaint, which Red Bull stated it took “extremely seriously” was conducted by an external lawyer. Horner was cleared of all wrongdoing on 28 February, maintaining his roles at Red Bull Racing. The specific nature of the allegations were not officially disclosed and the report remained confidential.

However, the matter was not completely closed as the female employee, who was suspended by Red Bull, appealed against the decision to clear Horner of inappropriate behaviour.

The Austrian company finally confirmed at the start of August that the appeal lodged by the female employee which accused Horner of inappropriate behaviour has “not been upheld”.

Commenting on the season as whole, Horner said that he wants to recharge his batteries ahead of the upcoming season. “Finally, a special thanks to Max and Checo.

“Their hard work and relentless pursuit throughout the campaign has not always bore the fruits they deserved but they remained committed and resolute throughout.

“We will look to recharge over the next couple of months as we head into 2025 and look forward to coming back fighting once again. Thank you to all, we wish you a happy holidays and a successful New Year!”