Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf recently reported that Christian Horner, the Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, is being investigated for inappropriate conduct. The team has confirmed that an independent investigation led by an external lawyer is currently underway. However, Horner has strongly denied any allegations of misconduct. The news surrounding this investigation has been quite scattered and mostly not in English, following the usual pattern in Formula 1 reporting. The exact nature of the complaint remains unclear, but according to BBC Sport, it involves an allegation of inappropriate behavior with an employee of a controlling nature. Both Horner and the employee are expected to meet with the investigator on Friday.
Horner has been an integral part of Red Bull Racing throughout its entire F1 journey, having joined the team following the acquisition of the Jaguar Racing team (formerly known as Stewart Grand Prix) by the company. With the exception of Helmut Marko, Horner has been associated with Red Bull’s championship legacy even before the arrival of other prominent figures such as Adrian Newey, Sebastian Vettel, and Max Verstappen.
Furthermore, Horner, alongside Marko, serves as Red Bull’s favored figure in the media, as they enjoy it when team principals create enough controversy to grab attention. Unlike Marko, Horner has gained recognition in British tabloids due to his marriage to Geri Halliwell (formerly known as Ginger Spice), which has been highlighted in the popular series Drive to Survive. In contrast, Verstappen skillfully avoids any appearances on the show, leaving Horner to fill the void. Whether or not one believes that Horner is truly essential for Red Bull’s success, considering the presence of Marko and Newey, he undeniably embodies the public’s perception of the team. Arguably, he fulfills this role better than Helmut Marko ever could.
It is impossible to discuss Red Bull without mentioning Marko, and it is important to note that Horner’s potential departure follows rumors of a conflict between him and Marko. Let me clarify that it is highly unlikely that the investigation is a scheme orchestrated by Marko to remove Horner from his position. However, there were rumors, despite Verstappen’s strong denial, that either Marko or Horner would eventually be compelled to leave Red Bull. Marko serves as an advisor and is an employee of Red Bull, the energy drinks company itself. On the other hand, Horner’s contract may have implications for Newey.
If Red Bull absolves Horner of any misconduct or even acknowledges his wrongdoing but allows him to continue as the team principal, all these speculations will become irrelevant. Although no specific timeframe has been provided for the investigation beyond the Friday meeting, the F1 season is approaching rapidly. Red Bull is scheduled to unveil its car for the 2024 season on February 15, just one week before the sixth season of the Horner-promoted show “Drive to Survive” premieres.
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