Red Bull is currently dominating the sport, achieving first place in the drivers’ title in 2021 and subsequently winning the constructors’ title in 2022 and 2023. However, there have been reports of internal conflicts within the team since last year, with the team principal allegedly seeking to increase his decision-making authority.
According to a report from FormulaPassion.it, Christian Horner supposedly made an offer to the Yoovidhya family in 2023 to acquire a Formula 1 team using financiers from the UK. If this offer is accepted, it would undermine the Austrian’s current 49% ownership. Despite owning 51% of the team, the Yoovidhya family does not seem interested in taking on full ownership.
There were speculations that Horner, the owner of Mercedes with a 30% stake in the team, considered buying Red Bull to avoid paying 8 million in fees and to keep all the earnings for himself. Horner has achieved great success in Formula 1 over the past three years, winning two constructor titles and three driver’s championships. However, he is still determined to secure some ownership in the team.
During the Bahrain Grand Prix, the first race of the 2024 season, Christian Horner, the team manager of Red Bull Racing, became the center of attention in Formula 1. Despite his driver leading the team to a 1-2 finish, Horner has been embroiled in a scandal involving allegations of inappropriate behavior towards a colleague.
Recently, leaked conversations involving Christian Horner have emerged from an unidentified source. While the authenticity of these conversations has not been verified by Red Bull or Formula 1, rumors have circulated that Verstappen may leave Red Bull for Mercedes due to Horner’s actions. Additionally, there are rumors of Horner attempting to acquire a stake in Red Bull. The ongoing investigation has tarnished the image of Formula 1.
As of now, no action has been taken by Formula 1 and FIA regarding the Horner scandal. Red Bull’s internal investigation has not found any evidence of wrongdoing on Horner’s part. However, leaked messages from FIA and Formula 1 indicate a slow progress in the investigation. Horner’s silence on various matters further contributes to the air of secrecy surrounding his actions.