Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko has broken his silence following the accusations levelled against F1 team boss Christian Horner.
As anticipated, Marko refrained from disclosing any details regarding the ongoing inquiry.
Last week, it emerged that Horner was under scrutiny after a female staff member accused him of ‘controlling behaviour’.
Horner, spouse of former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, has vehemently denied the allegations and underwent an eight-hour interrogation by an independent lawyer last Friday.
READ: Lance Stroll makes massive Fernando Alonso admission
Red Bull had hoped to settle the matter before the unveiling of their 2024 car on Thursday evening, yet reports suggest the investigation could persist for several more weeks.
On Tuesday, the 50-year-old was present at Silverstone as three-time champion Max Verstappen tested his new car for the first time, engaging in conversation and laughter with team members.
Red Bull has refrained from further comment since their initial statement: ‘After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company initiated an independent investigation.
This process, already underway, is being conducted by an external specialist barrister.
The company views these matters with utmost seriousness, and the investigation will conclude at the earliest convenience.
It would be inappropriate to comment further at this juncture.’
However, Marko, the head of the team’s driver development programme, was questioned on Wednesday about Horner’s presence at the launch.
Christian Horner is currently under investigation for alleged ‘controlling behaviour’ towards a female employee at Red Bull.
Horner denies the claims and was questioned for eight hours by an independent lawyer.
Red Bull’s investigation is ongoing and may continue beyond the start of the new F1 season.
Former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has refuted claims that he advised Horner to resign.
‘I cannot confirm that, nor can I offer any further comments on the matter,’ stated the 80-year-old to OE24.
‘I will refrain from speaking until the investigation concludes or produces results.
READ: Charles Leclerc knew about Lewis Hamilton talks before signing new contract
‘The process is ongoing.’
The reigning F1 champions have since confirmed that Horner will attend the launch of the RB20 at their Milton Keynes headquarters.
Supporters of Horner contend that the investigation is tied to the purported power struggle within Red Bull, in which both Horner and the contentious Marko play roles.