Christian Horner has called out the FIA’s stewards and race director for their decision-making after a Red Bull team fiasco.

Horner’s criticism comes after Max Verstappen and George Russell’s controversial incident in Barcelona, where prior to their now infamous collision, the Dutchman was told to give fourth place back to the Mercedes Formula 1 star by his Red Bull team.

Red Bull’s strategy blunder angers Verstappen

Red Bull’s decision to give the place back to Russell has been criticised by various figures in the sport, alongside their choice to put Verstappen on the hard tyres during the safety car restart in Barcelona.

Verstappen’s fury boiled over into what appeared to be a purposeful collision into the side of Russell, earning him a 10-second time penalty, three additional penalty points and a major dent to his championship chances.

According to Red Bull chief Helmut Marko, Verstappen’s anger prevented him from joining the post-race debrief with the team, after a weekend where they not only had to review the RB21’s performance but also the decisions made on the pit wall.