Christian Horner issues Max Verstappen 'hurt' admission

Christian Horner has conceded Max Verstappen's aggressive defending during the Miami Grand Prix "hurt" the Dutchman's race.

The Red Bull driver led the opening stages in Florida from pole, fending off Oscar Piastri until the start of lap 14, when he out-braked himself and the Australian snuck underneath him through Turn 1.

Continuing his robust defensive tactics with Lando Norris in the other McLaren, Verstappen held onto second position until lap 18, when the 25-year-old finally found a way past the RB21 having first had to give the place back for passing off track.

Once clear, the papaya pair comfortably eased away from the Red Bull, utilising far superior race pace from the MCL39 at the Miami International Autodrome.

Nonetheless, Horner was "surprised" with how long Verstappen was able to keep Piastri, and then Norris, at bay.

"We knew going into this race, it was going to be very, very hard to beat them," the 51-year-old told media including RacingNews365.

"And I was actually surprised that Max was able to hold them back for circa 14 laps or so."

Horner: 'You gotta go for it...'

It would, however, ultimately prove costly for the four-time F1 drivers' champion, who lost a considerable amount of time battling to two McLarens.

Norris pointed out how Verstappen likely would have taken the final spot on the podium, arguing he was not "racing smart" in the Sunshine State.

Their battle also robbed the five-time grand prix winner of the opportunity to close up to his team-mate and challenge for victory in the final stages, having already tumbled down the order because of his clash with the Red Bull driver on the first lap.

With Verstappen following home George Russell in fourth, the Milton Keynes squad lodged a protest with the FIA in a bid to get the Dutchman elevated to the podium at the Mercedes drivers' expense - but to no avail.

Horner did contend that whilst Verstappen's approach was admirable, it probably did result in a net loss for him.

"I thought it was a very brave display," the Red Bull team principal said. "Arguably, that maybe hurt our own race, because you're fighting hard, your tyres are getting hot.

"But you're leading the grand prix, you gotta go for it, and I thought he did an outstanding job to keep Oscar behind for as long as he did, and then Lando."