The CEO of Ford, Jim Farley, expressed his dissatisfaction with the ongoing allegations of inappropriate conduct by the leadership of Red Bull Racing. In a letter dated Friday, Farley highlighted that it has been 11 days since Ford initially requested more information regarding the investigation into the allegations made against Red Bull’s team employee, Christian Horner. Ford is set to become Red Bull’s engine supplier in 2026. The accusations, initially described as an examination of Horner’s “aggressive management style,” have now shifted to reports of sexual misconduct. Horner has denied any wrongdoing and has expressed his desire for a swift resolution to the investigation. Farley emphasized that Ford’s values are non-negotiable and that it is crucial for their racing partners to share and demonstrate a genuine commitment to these values. He offered his availability for discussions on the matter and expressed hope for a resolution that everyone can support. Ford is currently the only corporate partner of Red Bull to publicly address the Horner investigation. Although the company reportedly sent an initial letter to Red Bull, the details of this letter have not been seen by the AP.
Formula 1 and the governing body FIA have both released statements urging Red Bull to reach a resolution. However, Larry Ellison, one of the co-founders of Red Bull’s title sponsor Oracle, and Ryan McInerney, the CEO of Visa, have not responded to requests for comment from the AP. Visa was announced as the title sponsor for Red Bull’s junior team in January, marking their first new global sports partnership in 15 years.
Farley’s letter expresses clear frustration with the slow progress of the investigation. Despite Red Bull’s parent company acknowledging allegations of misconduct and launching an inquiry, Horner has remained in his position as team leader of the reigning world champions. He recently attended the launch of the 2024 car and participated in team testing in Bahrain. Horner has also stated his expectation to continue as the team principal when the F1 season commences next weekend.
Ford, in their letter, expresses trust in the fairness of the investigation but conveys increasing frustration over the lack of resolution or clear communication regarding the anticipated timeline for a fair and just outcome. They also express frustration over the lack of transparency surrounding the matter with them and other corporate partners. Ford looks forward to receiving a comprehensive account of all findings.
The letter from Farley concludes by urging prompt and serious attention to the matter.
The investigation involving Horner has captivated the F1 community as the new season approaches and Max Verstappen vies for a fourth consecutive title. During a deposition, nearly 100 pieces of evidence were reportedly presented, with Horner allegedly offering his accuser a substantial financial settlement. Regardless of the investigation’s findings, Horner’s future remains uncertain.
Red Bull was established by Dietrich Mateschitz and Chaleo Yoovidhya, a Thai pharmacist. Following Mateschitz’s passing last year, his son Mark now oversees the company. However, the Mateschitz family only holds a 49% ownership stake in Red Bull. The remaining 51% is owned by Yoovidhya, and the outcome of Horner’s situation with Red Bull may ultimately depend on a standoff between the two families. (Reported by Jenna Fryer)