The spotlight, of course, was shining brightly on the Red Bull squad with the home hero, Sergio Perez, taking center stage. Now, Checo’s fans? Passionate is an understatement. They see their rivals as villains – and sometimes, that includes the racer’s teammate. This year, it’s Max’s turn to navigate the passionate maze of Checo’s fervent followers.

After a bit of a kerfuffle at the United States Grand Prix and Verstappen’s not-so-helpful gesture that led to Perez missing second place in the 2022 driver’s championship, the Dutchman found himself in the crosshairs of particularly irate fans. But, here’s a fun fact, rewind to 2017, and it’s déjà vu with Esteban Ocon, then teammate of Perez, who also had to play the security upgrade game before the Mexican GP.

But here’s where it gets spicy! Checo, being the voice of reason, steps in to tell everyone to chill out. “The Mexican fans love Max,” he exclaimed, pointing fingers at the media for fanning the flames of a non-existent rivalry. According to him, the Mexican crowd is all about the love for every driver and soaking in the race day vibes. “In terms of atmosphere, I think this is the best Grand Prix of the season.”

“He won a lot in Mexico and they always supported him and the team. The media always tries to create some kind of rivalry, and I don’t think that’s right. The Mexican fans are very passionate, they just want to support all the drivers and have a good time.

So, there you have it! A bit of drama, a dash of passion, and a whole lot of F1 excitement. Here’s hoping for a weekend of thrilling races, friendly rivalries, and nothing but love in the stands. Gentlemen, start your engines!

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Just as the engines roar in Mexico City ahead of the grand race, so does the rumor mill surrounding the alleged rift between Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. But team boss Christian Horner? He’s having none of it.

Christian Horner Pours Cold Water on Verstappen-Perez ‘Rivalry’ Ahead of Mexican GP

Recapping the Austin drama, a section of Perez’s enthusiastic fanbase ruffled some feathers, booing Verstappen during the podium ceremony. While some say the ‘disrespectful’ chants were aimed at Texas governor Greg Abbott (who was sharing the podium, handing out the shiny trophies), Verstappen wasn’t buying it. Result? Max got some bodyguards for his Mexico visit. Some say it’s a dash of extra spice given Perez’s massive home crowd support. But who doesn’t love a bit of drama?

Here’s the real kicker: both Verstappen and Perez are all-in on the ‘Racepect’ campaign. In case you missed it, ‘Racepect’ is the F1 world’s gentle reminder that while it’s okay to have a favorite racer, it’s also cool to show some respect to all those helmets on the grid.

To clear the air, and probably with a touch of amusement, Horner addressed the alleged rivalry at a press conference. “Well, first of all, I need to really disappoint you that there is no rivalry between the two drivers,” he began, undoubtedly with a glint in his eye. The duo, according to Horner, has been getting along like peas in a pod for three years. “I’m sure the media would love them to be at each other’s throats,” he quipped, “unfortunately for you guys, they aren’t.”

Perez echoes Horner’s sentiment. Sure, both want to outpace each other on the track, but that doesn’t equate to some dramatic in-team tiff.

Horner, ever the diplomat, drew a parallel to football. “Manchester City play Manchester United this weekend…and I’m expecting great support for Checo and the team, but respect above everything is important.” He emphasized.

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So, in the spirit of good sportsmanship (and maybe to the slight disappointment of drama enthusiasts), it appears all is harmonious in the Red Bull camp. Let’s buckle up and enjoy the race! 🏁🇲🇽🚗💨