The Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is under mounting pressure as new allegations of sexual misconduct and a hush money offer have emerged. A female employee of the Formula One team has claimed that Horner sent her sexually suggestive messages over a period of time and offered her £650,000 to keep quiet about it.
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The allegations were first reported by the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, which said that the Red Bull management was aware of the nature of the claims against Horner. The energy drink company, which owns the F1 team, has launched an independent investigation into the matter, led by an external specialist barrister.
Horner, who has been in charge of Red Bull since 2005 and has overseen seven drivers’ and six constructors’ championships, has denied any wrongdoing. He said: “I completely deny these claims.” He also said that the investigation was a “distraction” but that he would continue his role as normal.
Horner, 50, is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, with whom he has a son. He was awarded a CBE for his services to motorsport in the New Year Honours List. His team dominated the 2023 F1 season, with Max Verstappen winning his third consecutive world title and setting a record of 10 straight victories.
The allegations against Horner come at a sensitive time for Red Bull, which is preparing to launch its new car for the 2024 season on February 15. The team is also set to partner with Ford as an engine supplier from 2026, a deal that could be jeopardized by the scandal. Ford has said that it is monitoring the situation closely.
The F1 community has reacted with shock and dismay to the news, with some calling for Horner to step down or be suspended until the investigation is completed. Others have expressed their support for the alleged victim and praised her courage for speaking out. The FIA, the governing body of F1, has not commented on the issue yet.
