Horner makes Verstappen ‘best in the world’ claim

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has reiterated his belief that Max Verstappen is the “best in the world”, following his victory in the São Paulo Grand Prix. 

The reigning world champion mastered a soaked Interlagos to recover from 17th to end his 10-race winless streak.

In doing so, the Dutchman extended his lead in the F1 drivers’ title to 62 points over Lando Norris, with Verstappen now being able to become a four-time world champion in Las Vegas.

A crucial decision made by Verstappen was to not pit before a red flag, as the strategy saw the 27-year-old overtake Lando Norris and George Russell who both pitted. 

Horner could not praise his driver any higher, on what was his first victory since the Spanish Grand Prix.

“It was a masterclass and I think in those conditions the drivers skill really comes to the fore, he was in a league of his own,” Horner told Sky Sports F1. 

“So I think as a team, we got all the calls right. The car had great pace, so an outstanding drive to come from 17th. 

“In qualifying, it felt like everything had gone against us, but he turned it round.”

‘Testament’ to Red Bull

It has been a difficult few months for Red Bull which has seen the Milton Keynes-based team face increasing pressure.

Victory in Brazil marked the perfect recovery from a controversial performance in Mexico City, where he received two 10-second time penalties.

The São Paulo GP was firmly Verstappen at his brilliant best, in what was a race which Horner believes is a credit to the huge effort by the Austrian outfit.

“I think in the wet and the dry, he’s the best in the world at the moment,” said Horner. “It’s been a while, but I think that the whole team have really kept their heads and worked incredibly hard.

“We fought ourselves back into a winning position, that’s testament to the effort that goes on behind-the-scenes back in Milton Keynes, that nobody ever gives up. We’ve demonstrated that.”