F1 has issued a statement in response to the allegations of inappropriate behaviour made against Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.
Formula 1 expects Red Bull’s investigation into allegations lodged against team boss Christian Horner will be wrapped up at “the earliest opportunity” as the new season quickly approaches.
Horner is currently the subject of an investigation following claims of inappropriate behaviour made by a female team member. The Red Bull team boss is still in control of the team and was present at the recent launch of their 2024 F1 car despite the parent company – Red Bull GmbH – placing him under internal investigation.
Red Bull’s independent barrister, who has been assigned to investigate the situation, has recently subjected him to extensive questioning during which he has denied any misconduct. The energy drinks manufacturer is currently evaluating the investigation’s results to determine what, if any, action to take.
Horner remains in his role at Red Bull and he is anticipated to be present at this week’s Bahrain pre-season test in advance of the F1 season’s opening on March 2.
The Horner controversy as well as the nature of the claims have generated more attention recently, and the attention is only going to grow as the Formula 1 paddock convenes in Bahrain for the beginning of the 2024 campaign.
F1’s commercial rights holders want to see a quick conclusion to the Red Bull investigation, without specifically naming Horner in a statement they released.
“We have noted that Red Bull has instigated an independent investigation into internal allegations at Red Bull Racing,” said the statement from F1.
“We hope that the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process and we will not comment further at this time.”
This comes after an earlier statement from Ford Motorsport boss Mark Rushbrook responded to the matter as the American manufacturer is set to partner with Red Bull Powertrains starting from the 2026 season.
“As a family company, and a company that holds itself to very high standards of behaviour and integrity, we do expect the same from our partners,” Rushbrook said. “It appears to us, and what we’ve been told, was that Red Bull is taking the situation very seriously. And of course, they’re worried about their brand, as well.
“And that’s why they’ve got an independent investigation and until we see what truth comes out of that, it’s too early for us to comment on it all.”
Although F1 wishes for a speedy resolution to the matter, it lacks the official capacity to compel the team or Horner into taking any action should it be judged necessary.
That is within the purview of the FIA, which may decide to take action if there is proof of any misconduct that deviates from the ethical standards it upholds.
