Red Bull suspends female employee over allegations against team principal Christian Horner
Red Bull has taken action by suspending a female employee following allegations of inappropriate behavior against F1 team principal Christian Horner, as reported by multiple sources.
Red Bull has reportedly suspended the female employee who accused F1 team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behavior. Horner mentioned that he could not discuss the suspension during a press briefing in Jeddah before the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, citing confidentiality restrictions.
On March 1, 2024, in Sakhir, Bahrain, Team Principal Christian Horner and driver Max Verstappen from Team Oracle Red Bull Racing were spotted chatting in the pits during the 3rd free practice session of the Formula 1 World Championship Bahrain Grand Prix. Photo credit: Hasan Bratic/dpa (Photo by Hasan Bratic/picture alliance via Getty Images) 
Hasan Bratic/picture alliance via Getty Images
Related article
‘He is not a liar:’ Max Verstappen defends his outspoken father amid Christian Horner controversy
CNN has reached out to Red Bull Racing and Red Bull GMBH but has not heard back.
Red Bull initiated a thorough investigation in February following accusations against Horner for behaving inappropriately towards a team member, whose identity has not been disclosed.
Last week, Horner was found to have not engaged in any wrongdoing and reaffirmed his denial of the allegations. Alleged messages were leaked and shared through a Google Drive with members of the F1 community. CNN was unable to verify their authenticity, and Red Bull stated that it would not be suitable to comment on the issue.
Horner explained that a grievance was raised and it was handled professionally by the group. The owners of Red Bull GMBH, not Red Bull Racing, appointed an independent KC, who is known to be highly reputable in the industry.
The KC thoroughly investigated the situation, taking the time to interview all parties involved and others who were relevant to the issue.
"He carefully considered all the information, weighed all the evidence, and ultimately decided to dismiss the complaint. Both Red Bull and I agree that it's time to move forward."
"The main priority now is looking ahead to the future."
There is media speculation about Max Verstappen possibly leaving Red Bull Racing due to his father, Jos Verstappen, calling for Horner's dismissal. Max Verstappen supported his father for speaking up.
Horner acknowledged the comments made by Jos Verstappen and stated that everyone is now looking towards the future after a discussion following the race.
Horner added that he expects Verstappen will see out his contract with the team through 2028.
”I’m certain that he will (see out his contract),” Horner said.
"He has an excellent team supporting him, and he has full confidence in their abilities. Together, we have accomplished a lot, which is why he has committed to staying with us until 2028.
On both the team's end and Max's end, we are focused on continuing to grow and achieve even more success. All 55 of his victories so far have been in Red Bull cars."
Max Verstappen won 19 of 22 races last year, on his way to a third consecutive drivers’ championship title.
Editor's P/S:
The allegations against Christian Horner, Red Bull's team principal, and the subsequent suspension of the female employee who accused him have cast a shadow over the Formula 1 racing community. While Horner has denied any wrongdoing, the leaked messages and the thorough investigation raise questions about the handling of the situation. The media speculation surrounding Max Verstappen's possible departure from Red Bull Racing adds to the uncertainty and controversy surrounding the team.
It is crucial for Red Bull to prioritize transparency and accountability in addressing these allegations. The suspension of the employee who raised concerns suggests a lack of support for those who speak out against inappropriate behavior. The racing community should demand a fair and impartial investigation into the matter, ensuring that all parties involved are treated with respect and that the allegations are thoroughly addressed. The sport's reputation and integrity depend on upholding ethical standards and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion. may have been resolved internally. It is important to monitor the situation closely to determine whether the controversy will have any long-term impact on Verstappen's relationship with Red Bull and his future in the sport.
