Christian Horner speaks out after the complainant in the Red Bull affair is suspended.
Following a 23-day inquiry, Red Bull has suspended the employee who accused Christian Horner, the principal of the Formula 1 team, of inappropriate behavior.
Following Red Bull’s decision to suspend the female employee who made the accusation against him, Christian Horner feels that it is “time to draw a line” about his alleged inappropriate behavior.
After an internal inquiry that lasted more than three weeks and was headed by an independent barrister, Horner—who is married to Spice Girls star Geri Halliwell—was exonerated of the charges last week. However, purported texts and images surfaced 24 hours after Red Bull declared they had dropped the complaint in advance of the Bahrain Grand Prix, which kicks off the season.
Messages from Horner were intercepted and released to the media and senior Formula 1 executives.
The longest-serving team manager in Formula One vehemently refuted the allegations and affirmed his innocence. Red Bull suspended the complaint on Wednesday afternoon. It is believed that the complainant’s ability to appeal the investigation’s conclusion expires today, March 6.
During a news conference with the team principals, Horner was asked about the employee’s suspension, which Red Bull has not confirmed despite being approached by Mirror Sport. He responded, “I can’t comment on anything that’s confidential between the employee and the company.”
“Obviously, there has been a lot of press surrounding this,” the 50-year-old continued, “but one has to get back to the premise of a grievance that was raised, thoroughly investigated, and dismissed. After that, we continue on.
“I believe that this has been overblown. It is evident that several media outlets have taken a keen interest in it for various reasons. I believe that now is the right moment to move forward and put an end to it.
“As a Formula 1 team, we are here to race, and right now is the moment to concentrate on what’s happening on the track, the drivers’ and cars’ performances, and where the attention should be during
However, Horner acknowledged the effect on his family, saying, “I have a beautiful family, so it’s been very trying with the scrutiny on my marriage.” It’s not pretty when family members and children are involved. My spouse has provided me with amazing support. “Enough of this invasion of my family,” he continued. “It’s time to focus on why we are here.”
Speaking ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on Saturday, Horner also addressed remarks made by Red Bull’s lead driver, Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, who stated that the team was “in danger of being torn apart.” Additionally, the Dutchman told the Mail, “Things cannot continue as they are. It’s going to blow up. He is the one causing the problem, but he is acting like the victim.
issues.”
In response, Horner stated, “I’m obviously aware of the comments that were made.” “There was a discussion subsequent to the race and I think everybody’s focus is very much on the future.”The squad is fully focused on defending the two world titles that we have worked so hard to win. We all have our sights set on the future, and as I mentioned earlier, talks were held after the Bahraini race.
After Jos’ remarks, Horner downplayed rumors that three-time world champion Max would consider leaving Red Bull. Horner went on, “I’m positive that he will [complete his long-term contract].” “He has an amazing group surrounding him, and he has a lot of faith in that group,
, and together we have accomplished a great deal.
“Max and the team are committed to building on our current success, and he has committed to an agreement through 2028.”
