Horner addresses Perez role in Verstappen title defence

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has addressed potential team orders in this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix, a topic he describes as "contentious". 

Team orders have been a huge talking point in recent rounds due to McLaren's 'papaya rules', which were recently reviewed after Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri battled on the opening lap in Monza. 

Following a review, McLaren will prioritise Norris due to his title fight with Max Verstappen. Norris sits 62 points behind Verstappen, although Red Bull are in the hunt this weekend at the Baku City Circuit. 

A Red Bull victory in Baku is not out of the question, but it is Sergio Perez who has looked stronger than the reigning world champion. 

It has raised speculation whether Red Bull would order Perez to give his position to Verstappen, should the duo be running first and second.

"It depends where the others are," Horner told Sky Sports F1. "Team orders are always a contentious subject. 

"But Checo knows 100% what is his role and job is to support Max, to the end of this championship, and obviously the constructors'. 

"You only have to think back to Abu Dhabi 2021 to see what a team player Checo is, so for us, the game plan is pretty straightforward."

Unlike Stella, Horner has not been forced to deal with team orders for several races, due to Red Bull's recent difficulties; however, the Briton wishes it was something to be managing.

"I would love that headache to be managing on the last few laps," added Horner.