Former Formula One (F1) chief Bernie Ecclestone is currently involved in an investigation into the alleged misconduct of Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull. Horner has denied the allegations in an interview with Dutch publication De Telegraaf, although the specific details of the complaint remain unclear. The BBC has reported that the accusations relate to “inappropriate and controlling behavior,” but Red Bull has not yet confirmed this information. The investigation has garnered attention beyond the Red Bull headquarters in Milton Keynes.
It is believed that Ecclestone, a trusted confidant of Horner, has been in regular telephone contact with him regarding the matter. According to Motorsport-Total, the 93-year-old has been providing advice and guidance to Horner and has engaged in numerous conversations with him. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has also reportedly been in touch with Horner regarding the investigation.
Horner arrived at his hearing in a black car, and initially, it was expected to take place at the team’s F1 headquarters. However, to avoid excessive media presence, the hearing was relocated to London. Red Bull has announced that they will not comment on the situation until the investigation is fully completed. Consequently, it remains uncertain whether Horner will continue to lead the team into the 2024 F1 season.
The team is scheduled to unveil their RB20 car on Thursday, but there are doubts about whether Horner will oversee the presentation. The new vehicle is said to be an evolution of their highly successful RB19, which propelled Max Verstappen to a record-breaking World Championship victory. Red Bull has emphasized that they are taking the allegations “extremely seriously” and are eager for a swift resolution. However, it is still unclear whether the investigation will extend into the upcoming season.
The 2024 F1 campaign is set to begin with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 2, with practice and qualifying sessions preceding the main event. Red Bull has a three-week window to conclude the probe if they wish to prevent it from lingering into the season. Horner has played a crucial role in Red Bull’s success since taking over as team principal in 2005. Verstappen has secured the last three Drivers’ Championships, while Red Bull has also claimed the last two Constructors’ Championships.
According to the Source formula1news.co.uk