Jos Verstappen says the tension between himself and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has now subsided.
The 53-year-old father of world champion Max Verstappen was at the centre of the off-track storm that engulfed Red Bull early last year, but had been absent from grand prix paddocks until reappearing in Monaco.
"Maybe it was good that I wasn't there for a while, also for my own state of mind," he told De Telegraaf.
"After the fact, you naturally look at certain things differently, although sport is often also emotion.
I just want the best for Max. And if that doesn't work, Red Bull should also look in the mirror."
Despite his previous outspoken stance against Horner, Jos now admits the animosity has eased.
"We shouldn't go on holiday together," he smiled. "But I don't work for the team and he is the team boss, so there has to be mutual respect. And there is."
"A lot has happened, but that doesn't matter anymore. I'm straightforward and I say what I think. They'll just have to take that into account. I'm not going to change. Not for anyone."
While some suggest Jos should take another clear step back, he remains firmly involved.
"I'm more than just 'the father of Max'," he said. "Max, Raymond (Vermeulen) and I always talk about everything."
Regarding Red Bull's current competitiveness, Verstappen senior admitted he had concerns prior to Imola, but now sees reasons to be optimistic — despite Max only finishing fourth in Monaco.
"It's definitely looking more positive," he said. "Monaco is of course a bit of an odd one out. I think we'll see in Barcelona where Red Bull really stands."
