Christian Horner has addressed the public for the first time since receiving clearance of any misconduct accusations by Red Bull.
The investigation into his behavior concluded by dismissing the grievance against him just one day before practice commenced for the season-opening F1 Bahrain Grand Prix.
Despite the recent scrutiny, Horner is set to continue serving as the chief executive and team principal of the Red Bull F1 team.
He stated: “Look, I am just pleased that the process is over, I obviously can’t comment about it. Here to very much focus on the grand prix, the season ahead, and trying to defend both of our titles.”
The individual who filed the complaint against Horner retains the right to appeal the outcome of the investigation.
When asked if he wishes for the matter to be concluded, Horner responded: “I can’t give you any further comment. The process has been conducted and concluded.”
Horner was questioned whether he regretted the matter being made public.
He replied; “Look, again, I am not going to be able, I’m afraid, to give you any further comment on it.
“I am pleased to be here in Bahrain, with the team, focused on the season ahead.”
A day after being cleared of any wrongdoing, Horner was photographed in the Bahrain paddock, appearing as usual.
Notably, he was spotted engaging in conversation with Jos Verstappen, the father of Max Verstappen, within Red Bull’s hospitality area. Prior to this, unconfirmed rumors had suggested internal tensions possibly involving Jos.
Asserting the unity within Red Bull, Horner stated, “Within the team, it has never been stronger.”
Horner had been under investigation by his F1 team’s parent company for the past three weeks following complaints about his behavior from a female colleague. However, a statement from a Red Bull spokesperson on Wednesday read:
“The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed.
“The complainant has a right of appeal.
“Red Bull is confident that the investigation has been fair, rigorous and impartial.
“The investigation report is confidential and contains the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation, and therefore we will not be commenting further out of respect for all concerned.
“Red Bull will continue striving to meet the highest workplace standards.”
