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Red Bull suspended the employee who accused the F1 team director christian horner of inappropriate behavioraccording to multiple reports.
Speaking to reporters in Jeddah ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Horner said he could not speak about the reported suspension due to “confidentiality restrictions”.
When contacted by CNN, a Red Bull spokesperson said: “We cannot comment on this internal matter.”
Red Bull launched an independent investigation in February after Horner was accused of engaging in inappropriate behavior towards a member of the racing team, who has not been identified.
Horner was clear of irregularities last week and then reiterated that he denied the accusations after alleged leaked messages were distributed to members of the F1 community on a Google Drive. CNN has not been able to corroborate its authenticity and Red Bull said it would be “inappropriate” to comment on the matter.
“The reality is that a complaint was raised, it was dealt with in the most professional manner by the group, not by Red Bull Racing but by the owners of Red Bull GMBH, who appointed an independent KC, which is one of the most senior KCs. reputation of the country,” Horner said.
“He took the time to thoroughly investigate all the facts, interviewing all the people involved along with others of interest.
“He looked at everything, had all the facts, and came to a conclusion where he dismissed the grievance. “As far as I’m concerned, as far as Red Bull is concerned, we move on.”
Speculation has arisen in the media that three-time F1 world champion Max Verstappen could leave Red Bull Racing, after his father Jose Verstappen called for Horner’s dismissal following the allegations. Max Verstappen then defended to his outspoken father for speaking openly.
“I’m obviously aware of the comments that were made,” Horner said. “There was a comment, there was a discussion after the race and I think everyone is focused on the future.”
Clive Rose/Getty Images
Horner and Jos Verstappen in the paddock before practice ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix on February 29.
Horner added that he expects Verstappen to fulfill his contract with the team until 2028.
“I’m sure he (will fulfill his contract),” Horner said.
“He has a great team around him. He has a lot of faith in that team. And we have achieved a lot together, which is why he has committed to signing an agreement until 2028.
“From the team side, from Max’s side, we are determined to build on the success we have already achieved and those 55 wins have all come with Red Bull cars.”
The controversy surrounding Horner has stolen almost all the headlines as the new season enters its second weekend of racing.
Zak Brown, chief executive of McLaren Racing, told CNN’s Amanda Davies it was “very unfortunate” the saga continued and said more “transparency” is needed in the process so people are satisfied with the outcome.
Admitting that it was difficult to comment directly on the Horner case, given that he does not know all the details, Brown said McLaren would have suspended the individual while they were under investigation if something similar had happened at their team.
He also said the sport’s governing body, the FIA, must ensure the matter is handled properly so as not to damage the sport’s reputation.
“I think this is an isolated incident involving one team, a couple of people, and that’s why I think we need to look at it that way, rather than a broader issue with Formula 1,” Brown said.