Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, has issued a firm response following the leakage of WhatsApp messages, some of which are reported to be of a sexually suggestive nature. The leaked messages, allegedly exchanged between Christian Horner and a female colleague, emerged just 24 hours after he was cleared of “inappropriate behavior” following a three-week internal investigation conducted by an external lawyer.
The allegations against Christian Horner were initially made by a female colleague and strongly refuted by him. Despite his denial, the internal probe was launched, which concluded with Christian Horner being cleared of any wrongdoing. However, the recent leak of WhatsApp messages has brought the issue back into the spotlight.
Christian Horner, who is married to Spice Girl member Geri Horner, arrived in Bahrain late on Thursday ahead of the first race of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Present at the Bahrain circuit, he met with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali to discuss the matter.
When approached by the press, Christian Horner refrained from commenting directly on the leaked messages, dismissing them as “anonymous speculation from unknown sources.” He emphasized his commitment to focusing on the upcoming racing season.
In response to inquiries, Red Bull GmbH, the parent company of Red Bull Racing, stated that the matter is private and declined to comment further. However, discussions between Ben Sulayem and Domenicali suggest that further action may be taken by the sport’s governing body.
The FIA’s regulations stipulate that competitors in Formula 1 must adhere to a code of conduct, with breaches potentially resulting in penalties. Article 12.2 specifically addresses actions that may cause moral injury or loss to the FIA or its members.
Prior to the latest developments, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and McLaren CEO Zak Brown had urged F1 and the FIA to review the investigation conducted by Red Bull, indicating ongoing concerns within the sport regarding the handling of such matters.
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, expressed his satisfaction with the conclusion of the investigation into allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behavior” against him. Speaking to Sky Sports prior to the recent leak of text messages, Horner reiterated his focus on the upcoming Grand Prix and the defense of their titles, emphasizing the unity within the team.
The complaint against Horner was first made public on February 5, prompting strong denials from him both publicly and at Red Bull’s 2024 F1 car launch in Milton Keynes. Despite his denial, an investigation was conducted by an external lawyer, culminating in a ten-hour interview with Horner on February 9 in London. Following this, Red Bull GmbH confirmed the dismissal of the grievance, with the complainant retaining the right to appeal.
A spokesperson for Red Bull GmbH affirmed the completion of the independent investigation, stating that the grievance has been dismissed. The confidentiality of the investigation report was maintained out of respect for all parties involved. The spokesperson emphasized Red Bull’s commitment to upholding the highest workplace standards.
Read More:
Employee Appreciation Day: The Untapped Strategy for Supercharging Productivity!
It is noted that neither Liberty Media, F1’s American owners, nor the FIA, its regulator, have had access to Red Bull GmbH’s report, which is reported to be extensive. The statement from Red Bull HQ in Salzburg, as highlighted by Sky F1 pundit Martin Brundle, is seen as drawing a firm line under the matter.
Christian Horner’s Legacy and Achievements
Christian Horner, the longest-serving team principal on the F1 grid, has been at the helm of Red Bull Racing since its inception in 2005. His contributions to motorsport were recognized with a CBE in the New Year’s Honours list for services to motorsport, following an OBE in 2013. Under his leadership, Red Bull Racing has achieved significant success, with multiple constructors’ and drivers’ championship victories.
Despite the cloud cast by the investigation, Red Bull Racing remains focused on the upcoming 2024 F1 season, where they and Max Verstappen are favored contenders for title glory once again. The season, featuring a record 24 races, kicks off on Saturday, March 2, in Bahrain.
