re: 2024 Formula 1 season Thread

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Interesting stuff from Christian Nimmervoll (who I stress again is pretty close to Marko)

- apparently Marko has not been amused about certain things Horner achieved (e.g. gaining Bernie's influence, being able to connect his contract with Newey)
- however, things used to be different. A few years ago there were internal rumours that Horner behaved unethitically (to avoid something to get lost in translation: he says "not behaved cleanly") when they made a sponsor deal with Geox, Mateschitz wanted to fire him, but Marko saved his job
- Mateschitz was already on the death bed in the summer of 2022. He, Marko and Porsche were trying to make a deal happen at the time, however it was Horner who ended up preventing the deal long before Marko/Mateschitz realized themselves that Porsche doesnt fit to RB, with this Horner gained the trust of the Thai owners. Horner was also very quick to realize how things were going to change at RB after Mateschitz dies (his son wasnt going to inherit the right to make all decisions etc.)
- since Chaleo Yoovidhya's death in 2012 it seems that the values for the Thai part of Red Bull has changed, which is probably why they dont see any issue with Horner's behavior
- The Austrian side however did realize that in the post-metoo age this story is very problematic and wanted to ensure full transparency. Many at Red Bull believe that the "independend investigation" wasnt as independend as claimed.
- Apparently Horner tried to gain control over both Red Bull and (now) Racing Bulls in 2023 and that he saw no use for Marko in this new scenario. People he wanted to hire for this coup have confirmed this.
- However Red Bull Austria backed Marko and extended his contract, Horner had to step back from his intenions
- one thing Horner never considered is that he didnt just made friends but also enemies. Jos never got over it that Horner didnt wanted to promote Max back in 2016, it was Marko that pushed it through. And this is why the Verstappens are completely loyal to Marko. So much that Max would probably leave if they ditch Marko.
- It also seems like Newey is no longer on his side. It's mentioned that he testified during the investigation of Horner's case.
- basically he is in the middle of the power struggle between both sides, and his mistake was convenient
- When the allegations became public Horner was kicked out of the house by Geri. She was flewn in purely to put an act on (for the purpose of PR, I assume)

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