The investigation into Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has come to an end with the verdict of the appeal confirmed yesterday. The team chief was ultimately exonerated of the accusations. This is what happened.
February 5: Red Bull Gmbh confirms investigation
Red Bull Racing parent company Red Bull GmbH announced the commencement of an independent probe into Horner on February 5, spurred by accusations of controlling and coercive behavior from a female colleague. Horner flatly denied the claims, and an external barrister was enlisted for a thorough, impartial inquiry. Red Bull GmbH released the following statement:
“After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation.
“This process, which is already under way, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.”
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February 18: FIA and Formula One Management statements released
Statements from Formula One Management and the FIA were released. FIA commented:
“In relation to the independent investigation currently being undertaken by Red Bull GmbH, the FIA reiterates that until such time as the investigation has concluded and the outcome is known, we will not be commenting further.
“The FIA remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and inclusivity within the sport.”
“We have noted that Red Bull has instigated an independent investigation into internal allegations at Red Bull Racing. We hope that the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process and we will not comment further at this time.”
Despite the ongoing probe, Horner continued his public duties, attending pre-season testing in Bahrain, where Mercedes’ principal Toto Wolff called for transparency in the investigation’s findings.
February 28: Red Bull GmbH announces the dismissal of the accusations
On February 28, Red Bull announced the dismissal of the allegations against Horner, emphasizing the fairness of the probe but keeping the investigative report confidential.
“The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed.
“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.”
February 29: Horner breaks silence and alleged WhatsApp messages leaked
Horner broke his silence on the investigation during an interview with Sky Sports News, commenting:
“I’m just pleased that the process is over.
“Obviously, I can’t comment about it, but we are here very much to focus now on the Grand Prix and the season ahead and trying to defend both of our titles.”
In the evening of February 29, WhatsApp messages which were claimed to be between Horner and the female employee were leaked to select members of the press and various members of the Formula One teams. However, these alleged messages have not been able to be verified to be real.
March 7: Red Bull employee is reportedly suspended after accusations
The complainant was reportedly suspended from her role in Red Bull Racing, retaining the right to appeal.
March 16: Appeal is lodged
The accuser lodged an appeal on the results of the investigation into Christian Horner.
August 8: Appeal conclusion released
During the summer break from Formula 1, Red Bull GmbH confirmed the results of the appeal process, stating:
“Earlier this year a complaint raised against Christian Horner was investigated. That complaint was dealt with through the company’s grievance procedure by the appointment of an independent KC 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.”
