Christian Horner has finally been cleared of any misconduct following a comprehensive investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour, which has been dismissed.
Red Bull team principal and CEO Christian Horner has been cleared of any misconduct or wrongdoing after Parent company Red Bull GmbH dismissed his investigation following allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” made by a female employee.
Despite the investigation’s announcement at the beginning of February, Horner continued to hold his role as Red Bull boss which includes addressing the media during preseason testing and the RB20 launch.
While denying any wrongdoing, Horner participated fully in the investigation, which was closely supervised by an independent barrister that Red Bull hired to guarantee integrity and fairness.
It took several weeks to conclude the process, which entailed in-depth interviews with all parties involved in the case. It came to an end without providing any proof to support the accusations made against Horner.
Red Bull’s pre-season preparations have been clouded by the allegations, which surfaced a week prior to the team’s car launch and were only addressed on the eve of the new season.
The Milton Keynes based outfit had always intended to have the investigation wrapped up before the new F1 cars took to the track for the Bahrain Grand Prix season opener. However, they noted in their announcement that an appeal could potentially be lodged.
“The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed,” said a Red Bull spokesperson. “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.”
The satisfactory conclusion of the investigation is a heavy burden off Horner and the entire Red Bull outfit.
The Red Bull GmBH panel received assistance in making their conclusion through more than 145 pages of evidence and more than 50 hours of interviews backing or opposing his conduct.
In the lead-up to the 2024 Formula 1 season, Horner maintained his position as team principal despite the accusations, branding them a “distraction” as he received backing from both the Yoovidhya family (51%) and Mark Mateschitz (49%).
Horner has overseen Red Bull Racing since the team was established following the company’s acquisition of Jaguar ahead of the 2005 season, therefore he is one of the most prominent and influential figures in the F1 paddock. This is why the pre-season drama has attracted so much attention.
