- Written by Andrew Benson
- chief f1 writer
Doubts are a distraction for the Red Bull team – Horner
F1 has urged Red Bull to resolve the dispute surrounding Christian Horner as soon as possible.
Horner, who has led the team since 2005, has denied the allegations.
F1 said in a statement: “We look forward to this matter being resolved at the earliest opportunity, following a fair and thorough process.”
“We have noted that Red Bull has launched an independent investigation into internal allegations within Red Bull Racing,” it added.
“We have no further comment at this time.”
When the allegations surfaced two weeks ago, Red Bull issued a statement saying it was taking the matter “extremely seriously”.
The company said it has begun an “independent investigation” which will be “conducted by external expert counsel” and will be “completed as soon as practically possible.”
Speaking at the launch of Red Bull's new F1 car on Thursday, Horner said: “I obviously deny the allegations, but I went through a process and I completely respect that process.”
Red Bull's lawyers will compile a report and submit it to the company's board of directors.
The identity of the lawyer has not been made public, and no other details about the scope of the investigation have been released.
Meanwhile, American car giant Ford, which will be Red Bull's engine partner in F1 in 2026, released a statement regarding Horner's situation.
“As a family company and a company with the highest standards of conduct and integrity, we expect the same from our partners,” said Mark Rushbrook, global head of Ford Performance Motorsports. There is.
“From what we've seen and what we've heard, Red Bull seems to be taking this situation very seriously. And of course they're concerned about their brand as well.”
“That's why they're conducting an independent investigation and until what truth emerges from that, it's too early for us to comment on everything.”
F1's governing body, the FIA, said: “We will not comment while the investigation continues.”
Red Bull's pre-season test will be held in Bahrain from February 21st to 23rd. Horner told reporters earlier this week that he would be in the paddock when the event takes place.
