BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN – FEBRUARY 29: Max Verstappen from the Netherlands and the principal team of Oracle Red Bull Racing, Christian Horner, embrace in the Paddock before the practice sessions for the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit on February 29, 2024, in Bahrain, Bahrain. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202402290284 // Editorial use only //
Speaking on Friday after securing the top position in qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen praised Horner’s role as team leader. The Dutch three-time F1 champion commended Horner’s exceptional performance within the team, leaving no room for doubt.
Horner was recently cleared of charges following a thorough investigation conducted by an independent lawyer representing Red Bull GmbH, the parent company of the championship-winning F1 team. Both Horner and Red Bull have consistently denied the allegations, and the details of the investigation will remain confidential.
However, renewed speculations about Horner’s future arose after an anonymous email containing a Google Drive link to alleged evidence was circulated on Thursday. This triggered discussions in the media and on social networks. The FIA, the governing body of F1, considers the matter internal but is closely monitoring the situation. During the Bahrain Grand Prix, Horner had meetings with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in the paddock.
The email was sent to approximately 150 recipients, including Horner, the commercial rights holders Liberty Media, other team principals, and members of the media. Horner is the longest-serving team principal in the history of the sport, joining Formula 1 with Red Bull in 2005. Under his leadership, the Milton Keynes-based team secured its sixth constructors’ title last year, with an impressive record of 21 wins in 22 races.
Verstappen, who is expected to win his fourth consecutive F1 championship, spoke highly of Horner’s commitment to the team. Despite the potential distractions, Verstappen emphasized that everyone is focused on performance and works together as a unit. During the Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen secured his 33rd pole position in F1, equaling the records set by Jim Clark and Alain Prost. (Reporting by Abhishek Takle)
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