Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, who has been involved with the Formula One team since 2005, was cleared this week of any wrongdoing following an inquiry into claims of “inappropriate behavior.”
The father of Red Bull star Max, Jos Verstappen, has denied rumors that he is organizing an effort to oust Christian Horner from the Formula 1 winners.
Horner was found not guilty of any wrongdoing on Wednesday after an inquiry into the claims of “inappropriate behavior” was completed. However, the next day, purported text messages and images between the Red Bull Racing CEO and a colleague were made public, which Mirror Sport has access to.
The drama overshadowed the build-up to the Bahrain Grand Prix on Saturday, which Verstappen Jr. won handily to start the season. A few hours after Red Bull’s victory, the Dutchman’s father forewarned Red Bull that if Horner stays in his position, they risk being “torn apart.” This added a twist to the story.
Verstappen Sr. has refuted any claims that he has started a campaign against Horner in spite of his critical remarks. That wouldn’t make sense, he told Mail Online. Max is doing so well here, why would I do that?”
The 51-year-old was making reference to the fact that his son launched his 2024 quest for glory with a thrilling victory in Bahrain and has won three consecutive world titles in a dominant Red Bull car. Verstappen Sr. seems to be implying that the current champions should break up with Horner, 50, who is wed to Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, despite Red Bull’s valiant efforts on the track.
He continued, saying, “There is tension here while he remains in position,” in the same interview with Mail Online. There’s a chance the team will fall apart. Things cannot continue as they are. It’s going to blow up. Even though he is the one creating the issues, he is acting the victim.”
An outside attorney who had been hired to examine the evidence cleared Horner on Wednesday. Hours after the claimed messages and photos were made public on Thursday, Horner—who has insisted on being innocent throughout the investigation—released a new statement.
“I will not comment on anonymous rumors, but let me reiterate that I have always refuted the accusations,” he stated. I fully cooperated with the independent investigation throughout, showing respect for its integrity.
“An independent specialist barrister carried out a comprehensive and impartial investigation, which resulted in the complaint being dismissed. I’m still completely focused on the beginning of the season.”
The team’s parent company, Red Bull Austria, released the following statement on Wednesday: “Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed, and the independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr. Horner is complete.” An appeal is within the complainant’s rights. Red Bull is certain that the inquiry was conducted in an impartial, thorough, and fair manner.
“We will refrain from providing any additional comments out of respect for all parties involved, as the investigation report is confidential and includes the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation. Red Bull will keep working to uphold the best standards in the workplace.”
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