Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, is under investigation by the Formula 1 team’s Austrian parent company after accusations of misconduct surfaced. Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, emphasizes the importance of conducting the investigation with openness and thoroughness. Horner refutes the allegations against him.
Toto principal of the Mercedes team, asserts that the current inquiry into Christian Horner, his counterpart at Red Bull, concerning allegations of misconduct,Wolff, the impacts the entire Formula 1 community.
In February, Red Bull GmbH, the parent company of the F1 team, initiated an investigation into Horner following a claim of inappropriate behavior made by a female colleague.
The individual, aged 50, who refutes the accusations, participated in an interview on February 9 with an external specialist barrister appointed to conduct the investigation. However, no conclusion was reached regarding the issue during the interview.
On February 15, Horner appeared at Red Bull’s 2024 car launch, marking his first public address to the media since the allegations surfaced. He reaffirmed his denial of the accusations. Furthermore, he is currently in Bahrain, where the F1 pre-season testing commenced on Wednesday.
During a press conference held between the two sessions on Wednesday, which included five team principals, they were collectively questioned about their perspectives on the Horner situation. Specifically, they were asked about what the ongoing investigation and Horner’s continued presence in his role signify regarding “F1’s stance on gender equality.”
Wolff was the initial and solitary team principal to respond to the inquiry, stating, “I believe it’s evident. Formula 1, along with the actions of the teams, advocates for inclusivity, equality, fairness, and diversity, not merely in words but in everyday practice. These principles are the benchmarks we adhere to. As a global sport and one of the world’s most prominent sporting platforms, we serve as role models.”
“However, it’s worth noting that there has been considerable speculation in recent weeks, speculation that we’ve been made aware of, and various developments underway. At this stage, what’s crucial is a thorough process… Red Bull’s initiation of an independent investigation, if conducted properly with transparency and meticulousness, is something we must observe closely – understanding the results and their implications for Formula 1, and extracting lessons from it.”
“We prefer discussions revolving around racing cars and the sport itself rather than delving into such critical topics, which extend beyond just a team’s internal matters. It’s a matter of concern for the entirety of Formula 1 and for every individual involved in the sport.
Wolff’s comments follow Formula 1’s recent statement urging Red Bull to address the situation promptly. The statement emphasized the need for clarity and transparency, expressing hope for a swift resolution following a fair and comprehensive investigation. No further comments will be made at this time.
Horner is scheduled to participate in a press conference in Bahrain on Thursday, amidst the ongoing pre-season testing, which is being broadcast live on Sky Sports.”
The season’s inaugural race, in which Max Verstappen of Red Bull aims for a fourth consecutive drivers’ title, will also occur in Sakhir on March 2.
Regarding Horner’s statements:
During an interview with Sky Sports News at Red Bull’s recent launch, Horner was questioned about the possibility of temporarily stepping away from his role as team principal and CEO amid the ongoing investigation into the allegations against him.
He responded, “No, it’s business as usual. There is a process underway. I categorically deny any accusations made against me, but I will cooperate fully with the investigation, which I hope will conclude soon.”
Horner, the longest-serving team principal in Formula 1, has guided Red Bull to six constructors’ titles since the team’s inception in 2005.
During a separate media session, when questioned about his decision to attend the launch despite the attention on him, Horner responded, “I’ve refuted the allegations. To me, it’s business as usual. I have confidence in that. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here.”
Regarding the investigation, Horner stated, “I’m unable to provide details on the specifics of the process.” He continued, “I have faith in the process and will cooperate fully with it. I vehemently deny any accusations. I will continue to participate in the process until its completion.”
The pre-season testing schedule for Formula 1 on Sky Sports F1
Wednesday, February 21st – Day One:
– 11:55am-4:05pm: Afternoon Session
– 8:00pm: Testing Wrap
– 8:30pm: Ted’s Testing Notebook
Thursday, February 22nd – Day Two:
– 6:50am-11:05am: Morning Session
– 11:55am-4:05pm: Afternoon Session
– 8:00pm: Testing Wrap
– 8:30pm: Ted’s Testing Notebook
Friday, February 23rd – Day Three:
– 6:50am-11:05am: Morning Session
– 11:55am-4:05pm: Afternoon Session
– 8:00pm: Testing Wrap
– 8:30pm: Ted’s Testing Notebook
– 9:00pm: Development Corner
The first F1 race will commence just one week after testing, with the Bahrain Grand Prix taking place from February 29th to March 2nd. Due to the Ramadan period, both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be held on Saturdays. This scheduling adjustment means that Practice One and Two will occur on Thursdays, while the Final Practice and Qualifying will take place on Fridays.
