Horner on Mercedes protests: 'Clearly a little desperate'

Christian Horner is ecstatic after the outcome of Mercedes' protests. The FIA has rejected both protests and Red Bull is very happy with that.

It took a while, but in the late hours of Sunday evening there is finally clarity about the outcome of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Max Verstappen was already first across the finish line, but had to be patient due to a double protest from Mercedes.

"Obviously it felt a bit desperate. But we didn't want it to end up in front of the stewards", the Red Bull team boss let The Race know. Although Horner is frustrated that Mercedes wanted to take this battle off the track, Horner also praised their competitors and especially the 'phenomenal driver' that is Hamilton.

''It was exciting. It was tough. But we are just happy with the result and very proud of Max tonight, who has been phenomenal'', concluded Verstappen's proud team boss. Mercedes has announced that it will protest against the FIA's decision, however, so Red Bull cannot be entirely confident.