On Monday, the Formula 1 community was taken aback by announcements that Red Bull had commissioned an external review concerning Team Principal Christian Horner. The meeting between Horner and Red Bull is scheduled for Friday.
Here’s a summary of the developments thus far.
Reports surfaced on Tuesday from De Telegraaf and the German outlet F1 Insider regarding an inquiry into Christian Horner, Red Bull Team Principal. An external entity was appointed by Red Bull to look into claims made against Horner, with a meeting planned for Friday to discuss these matters further.
The nature of the allegations centers around ‘inappropriate behavior,’ specifically directed at an individual associated with Horner, although detailed specifics have not been disclosed.
Red Bull has refrained from commenting further during the investigation, stating, “We are taking this extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as possible. At this time, therefore, it would not be appropriate to make any substantive comments.”
Christian Horner has not made any detailed statements regarding the accusations, aside from a comment to De Telegraaf asserting his complete denial of the allegations.
It has been noted in both German and British press that Horner has sought the counsel of a team of legal experts to navigate through these accusations.
The extent of their advice remains to be seen, with Horner maintaining a low profile, though he may choose to publicly share his perspective before his meeting with Red Bull.
The forthcoming discussion between Horner and Red Bull on Friday could potentially focus on Horner’s future with the team.
The outcome remains uncertain, but it’s anticipated that a conclusive decision regarding Horner’s position will be made before the unveiling of the new RB20 by Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez the following Thursday.
Regarding decision-making power within Red Bull Racing, Horner holds the positions of both team boss and CEO, with no superior within the organization to dismiss him.
However, the Formula 1 team is under the ownership of Red Bull GmbH. Mark Mateschitz, son of Red Bull’s late co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, owns 49% of the company’s shares.
The majority stake of 51% is owned by Thai Chalerm Yoovidhya, son of the other co-founder Vorayuth Yoovidhya, giving him the decisive vote in this scenario. Yoovidhya is known to have a strong rapport with Horner.
Should Horner face dismissal, it is expected he will not depart without contesting the decision, having reportedly declined an offer to resign when it was proposed.
