Horner: “The exchanges with the race direction should be broadcasted”

Last week, the FIA announced that conversations between teams and the race management would now be limited and no longer broadcasted. This decision echoes the controversies that occurred in 2021, notably in Abu Dhabi. Toto Wolff, the director of Mercedes, had shouted on the radio in an attempt to influence the decisions of race director Michael Masi. Christian Horner, on the other hand, had also monopolized the radio channel to defend his team and especially Max Verstappen, who was chasing his first title.

In an interview with Motorsport Magazine, the Briton regretted the FIA’s decision to reduce and no longer broadcast radio exchanges. « I fought hard for radio messages to be broadcasted. I always believed it was interesting for the audience to know what was happening between the pit wall and the race control, with the idea that it would be used less if it was broadcasted. With the competition we had last year [between Red Bull and Mercedes], it was used. If I hear another team principal putting pressure on the referee, then it is my role to defend my team. In Abu Dhabi, it was my job and responsibility to fight for my team. If I hadn’t done it, I would have done my job poorly. » Christian Horner defended himself.

« It’s a good thing that they define better who can speak to the race director, we’ll see what it gives. » however acknowledged the Red Bull director. « But I think that’s something that should be open to the public because fans and spectators have the right to hear what’s being discussed. It’s part of the sport. »

The discussions between the teams and the race management were made public only since the beginning of last season. Michael Masi’s predecessor, Charlie Whiting, had always been opposed to it. The controversies of 2021 have already put an end to the broadcasting of these exchanges, which nevertheless offered some unforgettable moments to the fans.