Are tensions ramping up between Red Bull and Verstappen camp?

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Jos Verstappen apparently doesn't agree with Red Bull boss Christian Horner on the reasons why his son has endured such a poor run of reliability lately.

Max Verstappen retired from last weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix following an engine problem, suffering his fourth DNF in six races.

The 19-year-old's frustrations are obviously building as he demonstrated on Sunday when he left Baku without even speaking to the media, a snub which cost the Dutchman a hefty EUR 25,000 fine.

Pundits have suggested that amid rumors that Ferrari has targeted Verstappen, the young charger, ill-advised by his father, could be seeking to deliberately breach his contract.

Ricciardo's gain is Verstappen's pain, admits Horner

That suggestion appears to be fueled by fantasy however, with Red Bull's Helmut Marko insisting that Verstappen's contract with the energy drinks company is long-term and water-tight, with no escape clauses.

Jos Verstappen may not see the issue in the same light however.

On Twitter, a F1 reporter linked to a story that quoted Red Bull boss Christian Horner as saying Verstappen's current frustration is "through no fault of the team or the effort the team is putting in".

Jos replied: "Bullsh*t".

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.