The woman at the centre of the allegations surrounding Christian Horner is to appeal the decision of Red Bull after the complaint she made last month was dismissed. She will be trying to get the company to overturn their initial decision.
In early February, allegations came to light against the Red Bull Racing team principal and CEO as he was alleged to be involved in inappropriate behaviour.
An external lawyer was appointed by Red Bull to investigate the claims. Ultimately the complaint was dismissed in late February. A week later, the woman involved in the case was suspended by Red Bull Racing.
In Saudi Arabia last weekend, Max Verstappen had to come out in support of Helmut Marko as the Austrian media outlets that was he on the verge of being suspended and would not be heading to Australia. The loyalty of the three-time World Champion means Marko stays at Red Bull for now.
Marko, Horner, the Austrian co-owners (49%) and the Thai co-owners (51%) have been involved in a power struggle. While the Thai side staunchly back Horner, the Austrian side were keen to get rid of the Brit following these allegations.
Along with his father Jos, Max Verstappen is firmly in the Marko camp after alleged attempts by Horner to oust him started last October.
Following the dismissal of the case, a leaked Google Drive file got sent to journalists and prominent names at the top of the sport during second practice in Bahrain. They allegedly included many messages from Horner to the lady involved in the case.
Speaking at the team bosses press conference in Saudi Arabia last week, Horner was grilled about the case.
The support of his family
“I am fortunate I have a beautiful family and a very supportive wife. It has been very trying, and very challenging.
“My wife has been hugely supportive, as has my family, but the intrusion on my family is now enough, and we need to move forward and focus on what we are here for.
“It is time now to focus on why we are here which is to go Formula 1 racing.”
The dismissal of the case
“There is a grievance process in any company and that process is confidential between the individuals and the company itself.
“I am not at liberty due to the confidentiality and out of respect to the company and the other party.”We are all bound by the same restrictions, even if I would like to talk about it, I can’t.
“The only reason this has gained so much attention is because of the leakage and attention in the media which has been very trying in many respects.
“I think it’s time to draw a line under it and to focus on what is going on on track.”
More on the case
“The reality is that there was a grievance raised, it was dealt with in the most professional manner by the group, that appointed an independent KC, one of the most reputable in the land.
“He took time to investigate all the facts. He looked at everything and he came to a conclusion where he dismissed the grievance.
“As far as I’m concerned, as far as Red Bull is concerned, we move on.”
