Christian Horner breaks silence after being cleared by Red Bull of alleged ‘inappropriate behaviour

The complaint from a female colleague, first publicised on February 5, alleged “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” against the Red Bull team principal. Horner stronglydenied the allegations, both initially and in public at Red Bull’s 2024 F1 car launch in Milton Keynes as well as last week at pre-season testing.

But after an investigation was conducted and completed by an external lawyer, the world champions’ parent company Red Bull GmbH confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that the “grievance” against Horner has beendismissed. The female colleague does, however, have the right to an appeal.

“I’m just pleased that the process is over, I obviously can’t comment about it,” Horner told Sky Sports News on Thursday, ahead of practice at the season-opening race.

“[I’m] here and very much focused now on the grand prix, the season ahead and trying to defend both of our titles.

“I can’t give you any further comment, the process has been conducted and concluded. I’m pleased to be here in Bahrain and focused on the season ahead.

“Within the team it’s [unity has] never been stronger.”

Horner arrived in Bahrain on Wednesday night and will be in position for the first race of the 2024 F1 season this weekend.

A Red Bull GmbH spokesperson said on Wednesday: “The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed.