Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, has been cleared following an internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague. The allegations, which emerged on 5 February , had cast a shadow over the Formula 1 team, but Red Bull’s head office in Austria has now confirmed that Horner has been exonerated.

The investigation was launched after the allegations against the 50-year-old became public. Horner, who has led Red Bull since 2005, vehemently denied the claims from the outset. Despite the controversy, he continued to fulfil his role, even overseeing the launch of Red Bull’s new Formula 1 car on 15 February.

The investigation, which lasted eight weeks, was described as “fair, rigorous and impartial” by a spokesperson for Red Bull. The company has not disclosed any details of the allegations or the investigation, citing respect for all parties involved. The statement also noted that the complainant has a right of appeal.

The decision to clear Horner was made following a meeting of Red Bull’s board of directors. The company, which is owned 51 percent by Thailand’s Yoovidhya family and 49 percent by the family of the late Dietrich Mateschitz in Austria, reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest workplace standards.

Triumph for Red Bull and return to racing excellence

The investigation’s conclusion marks a significant moment for the sport. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton described it as a “really important moment to make sure we stand true to our values”. He emphasised the need for the sport and its environment to be safe and inclusive, and for any allegations to be taken very seriously.

Horner’s clearance also brings relief to Red Bull, which has been a dominant force in Formula 1 since Horner took the helm. Under his leadership, the team has won seven drivers’ championships and six constructors’ championships. In 2023, Red Bull had a record-breaking season, winning 21 of 22 races as Max Verstappen claimed his third world title.

Horner, who was appointed a CBE in the New Year’s Honours list last year, has been instrumental in Red Bull’s success. He raced competitively as a youngster but retired at the age of 25 to focus on managing an F1 team. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in shaping Red Bull’s legacy in the sport.

As this chapter closes, the focus now shifts back to the track. With the cloud of the investigation lifted, Red Bull and Horner can now concentrate on the upcoming season and their continued pursuit of excellence in Formula 1.

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