In a significant development within the Formula One realm, both the sport's governing body and commercial rights holder have broken their silence on the allegations surrounding Red Bull Racing's team principal, Christian Horner.
The 50-year-old Briton finds himself in a precarious position as he battles to retain his position amidst looming testing sessions and the imminent start of the season.
Initiating the discourse, Red Bull's parent company in Austria initiated an independent investigation into Horner's conduct on February 5th, prompted by unspecified allegations against him. While Horner vehemently denies any wrongdoing, the investigation remains ongoing.
According to Reuters, Formula One's commercial rights holder issued a succinct statement on Sunday expressing their hope for swift resolution, emphasising the necessity of a fair and thorough process. Following suit, the Paris-based FIA underscored their commitment to upholding the sport's highest standards of integrity, fairness, and inclusivity.
Both entities have refrained from further commentary until the investigation reaches a conclusion.
The allegations against Horner have yet to be fully disclosed by either Red Bull or its parent company, though media speculation suggests they involve inappropriate conduct and exertion of control over a female colleague.
Horner, speaking at his team's RB20 car launch in Milton Keynes, maintained his confidence in the process, asserting his full cooperation and categorically denying any allegations against him.
According to Sky Sports, an independent hearing in London on February 9th, led by a barrister, extended for nearly eight hours.
Despite the ongoing scrutiny, Horner is set to attend testing in Bahrain this week and is scheduled for a regular FIA news conference on Thursday alongside other team principals before the season opener at Sakhir on March 2nd.
The potential departure of Horner from Red Bull would reverberate as a seismic shock within the sport. Last season marked a pinnacle for Red Bull Racing, securing victory in 21 out of 22 races—a feat unprecedented in Formula One history. Heading into the new season, the team, spearheaded by Dutch driver Max Verstappen, seeks to continue its dominance with a fourth consecutive title.
Horner's tenure as the longest-serving team principal in Formula One, coupled with his youthful inception into the sport with Red Bull in 2005, underscores the magnitude of the unfolding situation.