Red Bull have suspended the women who accused Christian Horner of ‘inappropriate and controlling behaviour’ after clearing the team boss of all wrongdoing and refusing to comment further despite a potentially damaging leak.
Horner continues to deny all allegations and hoped the saga was over after the investigation run by parent company Red Bull GmbH – who hired an external lawyer to oversee proceedings – concluded without any further action.
However, the bombshell leak of messages and images allegedly sent between Horner and the female employee has kept it squarely in the headlines and a fight with Jos Verstappen behind the scenes has complicated the matter further.
Jos isn’t present at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix but his statement to the media calling for Horner‘s resignation has put a further rift in the reigning double-constructors’ champions and Max Verstappen has been linked with a shock move to Mercedes as a result.
The woman is reportedly still on full pay with Red Bull, a team spokesperson stating: “The company cannot comment on this internal matter.”
BBC Sport report that her ‘dishonesty’ was the reason she was given for the suspension.
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What was Horner accused of?
Red Bull announced their investigation at the start of Feburary, but have never confirmed the specific details of the allegations against the racing team principal and CEO.
Originally it was reported to be a complaint against his management style, but the De Telegraaf publication that broke the news has claimed it’s sexual harassment against the female employee that’s now been suspended.
The leaked ‘evidence’ would support the latter if genuine but there’s still no way to verify that, while Horner has refused to comment on them.
He’s repeatedly pointed out that the investigation concluded with the complaint being dropped and there’s so far been no appeal announced.
“The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed,” Red Bull‘s statement clearing Horner read.
“The complainant has a right of appeal. Red Bull is confident that the investigation has been fair, rigorous and impartial. The investigation report is confidential and contains the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation.
“And therefore we will not be commenting further out of respect for all concerned. Red Bull will continue striving to meet the highest workplace standards.”
