Red Bull has officially dismissed its female employee’s appeal against team principal Christian Horner’s investigation.
Red Bull Racing have issued a statement claiming that the appeal against the Milton Keynes-based outfit’s team boss Christian Horner has been dismissed.
The case, which was filed by a female employee on February 2024 accusing the 50-year old of inappropriate and controlling behaviour, sparked controversy about workplace culture, governance, and accountability in one of the sport’s most successful teams.
In response to the serious allegations, Red Bull initiated an internal investigation by enlisting the services of an independent King’s Counsel to ensure an impartial review and later concluded that there was no evidence of misconduct on Horner’s part.
However, the employee chose to appeal the decision in March 2024, seeking further scrutiny of the findings despite the investigation’s outcome. A second independent KC was appointed to review the appeal, which included a comprehensive examination of the evidence presented during the initial investigation.
Red Bull has now announced that the appeal was conducted thoroughly and that all aspects were finalized, leading to the conclusion that the appeal would not be upheld.
“Earlier this year a complaint raised against Christian Horner was investigated,” Red Bull said a statement. “That complaint was dealt with through the company’s grievance procedure by the appointment of an independent KC [King’s Counsel] who dismissed the grievance.
“The complainant exercised the right to appeal and the appeal was carried out by another independent KC. All stages of the appeal process have now been concluded, with the final outcome that the appeal is not being upheld.
“The KC’s conclusions have been accepted and adopted by Red Bull. The internal process has concluded. The company respects the privacy of all its employees and will not be making further public comment on this matter at this time.
“Red Bull is committed to continuing to meet the highest workplace standards.”
While the complainant was reportedly suspended with pay following the conclusion of the initial investigation into the team boss, Red Bull declined to comment on the employment status of the female individual.
However, despite the dismissal of the appeal, the current situation at Milton Keynes continues to raise speculations about potential changes within the team, especially considering the recent departures of key personnel, including legendary designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, who are set to leave for new opportunities in the coming years.
Additionally, the case has prompted discussions among fans and analysts regarding the future of Red Bull’s star driver, Max Verstappen. His father, Jos Verstappen, suggested that the ongoing issues within the team could influence Max’s career decisions, particularly if the internal environment does not improve.
However, Max has publicly confirmed his commitment to Red Bull through the end of his contract in 2028, indicating that he remains focused on his performance on the track despite the ongoing turmoil.
