Red Bull GmbH has announced that the complaint against Christian Horner, the team boss, has been dismissed. However, it remains uncertain whether this marks the end of the issue. The investigation, ordered by Red Bull Racing’s parent company, has cleared Horner of the allegations made earlier this year. Although Horner is expected to continue as team principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing, the matter is not fully resolved yet.
It is worth noting that the complainant has the right to appeal, although it is unclear whether they will exercise that right. The initial process was thorough and lasted over a month, with the appointed barrister collecting all the relevant evidence. By announcing the outcome before the season-opening grand prix in Bahrain, Red Bull has attempted to resolve the matter promptly. However, if an appeal is lodged, it could prolong the process and extend into the season.
Red Bull’s statement emphasizes that they believe the investigation has been fair, rigorous, and impartial. However, as no information about the allegations or evidence has been disclosed, we can only rely on the company’s assurance. The report is confidential and contains private information concerning the parties involved and third-party contributors. Red Bull has chosen not to comment further out of respect for all those involved.
Given the seriousness of the matter and the undisclosed nature of the claim, it is evident that Red Bull treated it with utmost seriousness. Red Bull GmbH intervened and ordered an external investigation, which lasted a significant duration. Max Verstappen, a Red Bull Racing driver, expressed trust in the process during a press conference. Due to the lack of details, we must also accept this trust. Throughout the investigation, Horner has fulfilled his public-facing duties as Red Bull’s primary spokesperson.
As Horner arrives in Bahrain for the grand prix, he is expected to face the media and provide further insights. However, considering Red Bull’s emphasis on confidentiality, he is likely to refrain from revealing specific details. He will continue as team principal and assert that it is business as usual. Nevertheless, there are speculations and leaks to Dutch media that may prompt Horner to investigate their origin and consider appropriate actions.
Although Horner’s clearance is unlikely to impact Red Bull Racing in the short term, questions arise regarding potential conflicts between Horner, other parts of Red Bull Racing, and the wider Red Bull organization in the long term. There have been discussions about a power struggle between the UK side of the team, led by Horner, and the branch of Red Bull headed by Oliver Mintzlaff. This arises following the passing of Dietrich Mateschitz in late 2022.
It is essential to consider the claim and investigation separately, given their severity. However, it is also possible for other tensions to exist concurrently. Some individuals in F1 believe that Red Bull in Austria is concerned about Horner’s power base, given his leadership roles within Red Bull Racing and other F1-related businesses. As the post-Mateschitz era unfolds, there appears to be a desire for increased influence and accountability from Red Bull’s F1 teams.
It will be intriguing to learn whether Horner perceives any internal threats, particularly in light of the leaked information during the investigation process.