SUZUKA, JAPAN – APRIL 7: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands, from Oracle Red Bull Racing, and second-placed Sergio Perez of Mexico, from Oracle Red Bull Racing, pose for a photo as they celebrate with their team after the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Japan at the Suzuka International Racing Circuit on April 7, 2024 in Suzuka, Japan. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Horner was investigated before the start of the 2024 Formula 1 season for misconduct towards a female employee of his racing team. Although he was cleared of any wrongdoing, the situation took a surprising turn when an anonymous email containing alleged exchanges between Horner and his employee was shared with several people related to Formula 1.
Several people became involved in the saga, with Jos Verstappen demanding Horner’s resignation and even threatening that his son Max would leave the team. Toto Wolff and Zak Brown also expressed concerns about transparency in Formula 1, with Wolff even suggesting that Verstappen could replace Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari in 2025. Helmut Marko was briefly investigated for allegedly leaking evidence.
However, it seems that the situation has now calmed down within Red Bull. Despite the employee’s ongoing appeal against the decision to clear Horner, the team has had a strong start to the Formula 1 season, achieving three one-two finishes in the first four races and leading the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship. Verstappen currently holds the top spot in the driver standings.
Bernie Ecclestone, a close associate of Horner and his wedding godfather of Geri Halliwell, stated that the disturbance within the Formula 1 champion team has dissipated. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Ecclestone commented: “It’s a time of peace. And Christian [Horner] assured me that everything is fantastic with Geri [Halliwell].”
Although Verstappen initially expressed hesitation in supporting Horner and even threatened to leave the team when Marko was threatened, the situation has now calmed down and Verstappen seems to be satisfied. Rumors of his departure from the team have disappeared.
Ecclestone noted: “Max (Verstappen) seems likely to stay, and it’s similar to all wars, people move on and overcome things. After World War II, Germany was a taboo subject, and the Jewish community refused to buy anything from there. It was understandable. But eventually, people forget and start buying cars from Mercedes. So, I don’t see any reason for anyone wanting to remove Christian. Time is a great healer. He’s doing an excellent job, and a few weeks can make a significant difference. He has Geri’s support, and the whole team is doing well. There’s no logical reason to disrupt this harmony,” concluded the 93-year-old British businessman.
The restoration of peace within Red Bull can be seen as unwelcome news for Mercedes and McLaren, both struggling to deal with their own issues. Mercedes has not yet figured out how to optimize the performance of their Formula 1 car with ground effect without facing stability issues, while McLaren has recently shown signs of internal instability with a new technical reorganization.
It is possible that Wolff and Brown were hoping that Horner’s scandal would divert attention from the deficiencies of their own teams or potentially dismantle Red Bull’s dominance.
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Soccer fans are excited about the latest news regarding the upcoming season. According to reliable sources, star player Cristiano Ronaldo is considering returning to his former club, Manchester United. The news has caused a stir on social media, with fans expressing their excitement and hope that the deal will be finalized.
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Juventus, has a long history of success at Manchester United. He played for the club from 2003 to 2009, winning several major titles, including the UEFA Champions League. His departure to Real Madrid in 2009 was a sad moment for United fans, but now they have the chance to see their idol back in the team.
Although nothing has been officially confirmed, sources claim that negotiations are ongoing and Ronaldo is open to the possibility of returning to Manchester United. The 36-year-old player is still considered one of the best in the world and his presence in the club would certainly be a significant boost for the team.
Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United would also bring financial benefits to the club. His popularity and on-field ability attract sponsors and increase the team’s market value. Additionally, Ronaldo’s presence could inspire other players to join Manchester United, further strengthening the squad.
While fans eagerly await an official confirmation, it is clear that the possible return of Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United is exciting news for all involved. Supporters are hopeful that this negotiation will be successful and that they can see their idol wearing the United shirt once again.
