Red Bull Racing, a powerhouse Formula One (F1) team, has launched an independent investigation into its team principal, Christian Horner, following allegations of misconduct towards a team employee.
The investigation, prompted by recent claims, is currently underway and is being conducted by an external specialist barrister, as confirmed in a statement released Monday by the energy drink company.
Red Bull Racing, the reigning constructors' champion in F1, emphasized the gravity of the situation in their statement, asserting their commitment to taking such matters seriously.
"After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation (into Christian Horner)," Red Bull Racing said in a statement.
The company expressed its intention to conclude the investigation as soon as practically possible but refrained from providing further details, deeming it inappropriate to comment at this time.
The allegations first surfaced in a report by Dutch publication De Telegraaf, which did not disclose the identity of the team member involved or provide specifics regarding the alleged misconduct.
Multiple media outlets have reported that the complaint centers around Horner's "aggressive management style," an accusation vehemently denied by the 50-year-old team principal.
"I completely deny these allegations," Horner said in a statement to De Telegraaf.
Horner Granted Permission to Continue Working Despite Ongoing Investigation
Horner has played a pivotal role in the team's success, securing six constructors' championships and seven drivers' championships.
The most recent triumph came in the 2023 season, where Red Bull driver Max Verstappen clinched his third consecutive drivers' championship, contributing to the team's back-to-back constructors' titles.
The 2023 season saw Red Bull dominate the racing circuit, further solidifying its position as a powerhouse in F1
The team is currently preparing for the upcoming season, set to commence with the season-opening race in Bahrain on March 2. Despite the ongoing investigation, Red Bull Racing has granted Horner the permission to continue working until its completion.
Horner, also the CEO of Oracle Red Bull Racing, is married to pop star Geri Halliwell, famously known as Ginger Spice from the Spice Girls.
According to a friend who spoke to the MailOnline, Halliwell is reported to be profoundly "devastated" by the accusations against her husband. Despite this, the source reveals that she intends to publicly support him during this challenging time.
As the investigation unfolds, Horner remains focused on the upcoming challenges, with the team set to unveil its latest car on February 15.
The 2024 season is eagerly anticipated, with races scheduled in Miami, Austin, Texas, and Las Vegas, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport in the U.S.
Horner assumed the role of Red Bull team principal in 2005, earning him the distinction of being the youngest in F1 at that time.
