Red Bull Managing Director Oliver Minztlaff has slammed Toto Wolff’s pursuit of Max Verstappen, arguing he should “concentrate” on his struggling Formula 1 squad.
Mercedes Team Principal Wolff has been outspoken on his desire to prise Verstappen from Red Bull to replace the Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton at the team in 2025.
Despite Verstappen continuing to dominate in Red Bull machinery in 2024, Wolff is aiming to capitalise on the simmering power struggle in the Austrian outfit’s ranks.
However, Minztlaff has criticised his counterpart’s actions and cited how it has been disrespectful of Wolff to continue airing his public thoughts on Red Bull matters.
“I understand the pressure that Toto Wolff and perhaps other teams have after years of being behind,” Mintzlaff told Bild Am Sonntag.
“But I think Toto Wolff should concentrate on his challenges. He has enough of those.
“And it also has something to do with respect. If I keep talking about the personnel of other teams, that’s not right.”
Rumours linking Verstappen to a move were heightened in the build-up to last weekend’s Miami Grand Prix as it was confirmed that Adrian Newey will leave Red Bull.
But the Dutchman, who retains a deal through 2028, has pledged his commitment to Red Bull and reiterated that he sees no reason to depart the squad at this stage.
“Max still has a long-term contract here and hasn’t said a word that he doesn’t want to fulfil it,” Minztlaff added.
“I’m not at all worried that he’s considering a move. Things just have to calm down again now. That’s what Max wants – and that’s what we want too.
“You also need that, if you want to be successful in the long term in sport, whether in football or Formula 1.”
Wolff had touted that there were “other factors” not related to current performance that could entice Verstappen amid Mercedes’ continued woes across this season.
Mintzlaff has disagreed with that viewpoint, though, and is optimistic that Red Bull will be able to retain the reigning F1 champion’s services for the foreseeable future.
“Max wants the fastest car. We have this. Max wants to become World Champion. With us, he has the best chances and Max is a loyal guy,” he added.
“He knows that Christian Horner and Helmut Marko have always placed their trust in him.
“He appreciates that. In addition, Red Bull is simply a great brand that he can extremely identify with. So there are many reasons for staying – and none against.”
