This action was seen as a public display of support amidst the chaos and internal demands for Horner’s removal from his position on the team.
The controversy surrounding Christian Horner, Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, took a turn with the woman involved in the alleged ‘sexting’ scandal planning to challenge the decision that initially cleared Horner of any wrongdoing.
A separate investigation had already cleared the 50-year-old Horner of ‘coercive conduct’ towards a staff member.
However, this was called into question when text message screenshots allegedly between Horner and the staff member were leaked via an anonymous email just a day after the investigation concluded.
In a show of unity, Geri Halliwell, Horner’s wife and former Spice Girls member, accompanied him to the first two races of the Grand Prix season.
This action was perceived as a public display of support amidst the turmoil and internal demands for Horner to step down from his position on the team.
Following the investigation, the staff member at the center of the allegations was suspended from her position at Red Bull. This action was taken after her evidence was deemed ‘dishonest’ by Mail Sport. However, she is now seeking to challenge the original verdict by switching her legal team and preparing for an appeal, as reported by The Sun.
The situation sparked widespread discussion, especially after Horner posted a Mother’s Day message to Halliwell on Instagram. The timing and decision not to disable comments received criticism from fans, who saw it as a strategically timed move amidst the ongoing scandal. Horner expressed gratitude to the mothers in his family for their contributions, emphasizing his appreciation for them.
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Further complicating matters, 80-year-old Red Bull motorsport advisor Dr. Helmut Marko faced his own rumors of a possible team exit in light of the scandal.
Despite previous indications of leaving, which could have implications for the future of world champion Max Verstappen with the team, Marko has now confirmed his decision to stay after a positive discussion with Red Bull sports chief Oliver Mintzlaff.
This conversation, which took place in the Jeddah paddock, seems to have resolved any immediate concerns about Marko’s role in the team and his future stability.