A complaint has been lodged against Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, by a female employee who previously accused him of inappropriate behavior.
This action has been taken with the FIA’s ethics committee, sparking further controversy within the Formula 1 team.
Despite an internal investigation by Red Bull, which concluded with Horner being exonerated of the allegations, the employee has proceeded to challenge the outcome.
The investigation, led by an esteemed independent lawyer, subjected Horner to extensive interrogation, yet found no evidence to support the claims.
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Following the internal review, the woman remained employed at Red Bull but was absent from the first two races of the season in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
She was subsequently suspended but continues to receive her salary. In a bid for justice, she has now turned to the FIA, filing a complaint and urging the organization to re-examine Red Bull’s decision to clear Horner.
BBC Sport reports that the employee’s grievance is officially with the FIA’s ethics committee, and she seeks to have Red Bull’s leadership reassess their stance on the matter.
Red Bull, when approached for comment by the BBC, stated they were not aware of the recent complaint to the FIA and opted not to comment further.
This case has come amid a period of unrest at Red Bull, highlighted by Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, calling for Horner’s dismissal.
Nonetheless, Horner has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing.
He emphasized the need to move past this issue during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, underscoring the thoroughness of the investigation and its definitive conclusion.
“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.
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“As far as I’m concerned, as far as Red Bull is concerned, we move on,” Horner stated.
Despite the tumult, Christian Horner’s position appears stable, with Chalerm Yoovidhya, who owns the majority of Red Bull, reportedly backing him.
This situation unfolds amidst an internal power dynamic within the team, but there’s no indication that Horner’s role is at risk.