Bahrain’s Sakhir (AP) — Red Bull closed the inquiry that clouded the beginning of the Formula 1 season on Wednesday by rejecting
the accusations of misbehavior against team principal Christian Horner.
Horner will continue to lead the victorious Formula One team, as an internal probe by Red Bull exonerated him of any wrongdoing
towards a team member.
The probe had been the main topic of conversation leading up to this weekend’s season-opening race in Bahrain, even though the
specifics of the accusations have not been made public. Less than a day before the first practice session, and following the team
drivers’ customary pre-race media briefing, Red Bull made its statement.
“The independent inquiry into Mr. Horner’s charges has concluded, and Red Bull
“We will refrain from making any additional comments out of respect for everyone involved, as the investigation report is confidential
and includes the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the inquiry. Red Bull will keep working to uphold
the best standards in the workplace.
Red Bull, driven by three-time defending champion Max Verstappen, won all but one race in the previous season.
As part of a “business as normal” strategy, Horner had stayed in his position during the investigation and led the squad during
preseason drills last week, despite his admission that the probe was a diversion. He had denied any misconduct.
Red Bull’s announcement that Horner’s complaint had been dropped was followed by a delay in responses from F1 and the regulatory
body, the FIA.
Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula One champion and Mercedes driver, stated prior to the news that the Horner inquiry was a test
of the principles of the sport.
“All accusations must be investigated thoroughly. Although there is obviously more to the story than we know, it must be resolved
since it is a cloud over the sport, according to Hamilton. “I believe that now is a really crucial time for the sport to make sure we stay
loyal to our principles.”
The CEO of Ford Motor Company, which is scheduled to supply Red Bull with engines starting in 2026, Jim Farley, issued a letter to
the team.
Verstappen stated that his quest for a record-breaking fourth title has not been derailed by the probe. The Dutch driver, who set a
record with 19 victories in the previous season, is seen as the overwhelming favorite this year thanks to a heavily modified Red Bull
vehicle.
Before Red Bull released a statement on Wednesday, Verstappen said, “I’m very focused on just the performance of the car myself and
hopefully it (the investigation) will just be resolved very soon.” “We must all work together as a team to achieve greater success, which
is why it’s critical that this conflict be resolved as soon as possible.”
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