The commercial rights holders of Formula One, known as Formula One Management (FOM), have expressed their desire for a swift resolution to the ongoing independent review concerning the behavior of Christian Horner, the team principal of the reigning Formula 1 world champions.
Horner finds himself at the center of a probe initiated by the team’s parent entity, Red Bull Austria, following allegations of misconduct.
An independent legal expert is overseeing the investigation, which was launched after a team employee raised concerns about Horner’s actions. Horner, for his part, has rebutted these accusations.
The investigation into Horner became public knowledge last week, with a spokesperson for Red Bull disclosing to RaceFans that the inquiry was a response to a complaint they had received.
“After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation. This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister,” the spokesperson elaborated.
“The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.”
Despite the investigation’s commencement, Horner has not been temporarily removed from his position and was seen at the unveiling of the team’s RB20 vehicle at their Milton Keynes base. Horner, addressing the media including RaceFans at the event, mentioned that for him, it was “business as usual.”
The team has yet to specify when the investigation might end. With the pre-season testing in Bahrain approaching next week and the season’s first grand prix nearly two weeks away, Horner’s investigation remains ongoing.
FOM issued a statement to regarding the investigation initiated by Red Bull, emphasizing the importance of a prompt and equitable resolution.
“We have noted Red Bull has instigated an independent investigation into internal allegations at Red Bull Racing,” the statement outlined.
“We hope the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process. We will not comment further at this time.”
Since assuming the role of team principal at Red Bull, after the acquisition of the former Jaguar team at the end of 2004, Horner has led the team to seven world drivers’ championships with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, in addition to six constructors’ titles.
