Christian Horner has been spotted leaving his residence in anticipation of a crucial hearing scheduled for tomorrow following allegations of ‘inappropriate behaviour’ within Red Bull’s Formula One team.
The 50-year-old, who has held the position of Red Bull team principal since 2005, was observed driving his vehicle away from his home in North London amidst rain showers this morning.
This sighting marked Horner’s first appearance since the allegations surfaced on Monday, as London Insider reported.
Red Bull, the Austrian energy drinks company that owns the team, has stated that it initiated an independent investigation upon being informed of the accusations.
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The allegation stems from a member of staff within the British-based team, which guided Max Verstappen to his third consecutive world championship last year.
The hearing is anticipated to occur at Red Bull’s headquarters in Milton Keynes. Horner vehemently denies the accusation, asserting, ‘I completely refute these claims.’
A source within the Red Bull team disclosed that the claims pertain to ‘controlling behaviour’, allegedly directed towards a female colleague.
Horner has dismissed the accusations as ‘absurd’, vehemently declaring his innocence to MailOnline.
An external English KC lawyer has been appointed to probe the complaint, which was lodged by the woman with the parent firm in Austria rather than directly with the Red Bull team.
Horner’s advocates contend that he is ensnared in a broader power struggle within the organisation, following the demise of his primary ally, Dietrich Mateschitz, the soft drinks magnate, in October 2022.
A confidante of Halliwell informed MailOnline that she is ‘distraught’ by the allegations but stands by him publicly.
Horner has served as team principal at Red Bull since their inception into F1 19 years ago, overseeing seven drivers’ world championships and six constructors’ titles.
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Red Bull’s latest car is set to be unveiled on February 15 ahead of the upcoming season commencing in Bahrain on March 2.
A spokesperson for Red Bull remarked on Monday: “After being apprised of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation.
“This process, already underway, is being conducted by an external specialist barrister.’