Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner was observed in the garage during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Austria at Red Bull Ring on June 30, 2023 in Spielberg, Austria. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Red Bull recently announced their internal inquiry into the conduct of Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull Racing. The investigation was prompted by a complaint from a female employee accusing Horner of inappropriate behavior. Horner has strongly denied these allegations and participated in an internal hearing shortly after the inquiry was announced. Despite the ongoing investigation, Horner has continued to fulfill his responsibilities as the CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull Racing. He even attended the launch of the team’s RB20 F1 car on February 15, where he addressed the investigation and maintained his innocence, refuting the claims made by the female employee. While Horner did not provide a specific timeframe for the conclusion of the investigation, he expressed his desire for a swift resolution, particularly as the team prepares for the upcoming 2024 F1 season and aims to defend their Title double.
Ford, Red Bull’s engine partner starting in 2026, declined to comment on the situation involving Horner at this early stage. However, they emphasized their commitment to upholding the highest standards and viewed themselves as a family company, expecting the same from their partners.
Formula 1 has also issued a statement regarding the Horner investigation. They acknowledged that Red Bull initiated an independent inquiry into internal allegations within Red Bull Racing. Formula 1 expressed their hope for a timely clarification of the matter through a fair and thorough process. They also stated that they would refrain from making further comments on the issue at this time.
The Horner investigation has generated significant discussion within the F1 community, with speculation arising about a power struggle between the racing team boss and the Red Bull management in Austria. There have also been rumors of a potential rift between Horner and Red Bull Racing’s triple F1 Champion, Max Verstappen, as well as his father Jos. However, Verstappen himself asserted during the RB20 launch that his relationship with Horner remains unchanged and normal.
As Red Bull prepares for pre-season testing in Bahrain on February 21, they are gearing up for the first race of the season, scheduled for March 2 in Bahrain.
According to the grandprix247.com source, © 2024.
