Following an extensive eight-week investigation into allegations surrounding Horner’s conduct with a female employee, which concluded with no grounds for action, the situation appears far from resolved.
Reports from various media outlets suggest that the female employee, who was suspended following the investigation’s findings, intends to appeal the probe’s conclusions initiated by Red Bull’s Austrian energy drinks company.
Moreover, it’s been revealed that she has also brought to the attention of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) a potential violation of motor racing’s code of conduct, potentially involving the governing body in the matter.
Previously hesitant to intervene in what it perceived as an internal employment matter, the FIA may be compelled to act if there are indications of behavior breaching regulations.
The FIA maintains an Anti-Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy aimed at ensuring equal and respectful treatment for all involved in motorsport, including employees. A hotline has been established for reporting abuse, with harassment defined as any improper or unwelcome conduct expected to cause offense or humiliation.
Official confirmation of complaints from the FIA is yet to be provided. However, a statement issued by the organization emphasized its policy of refraining from commenting on ongoing matters under review.
“At the FIA, inquiries and complaints are received and managed by the Compliance Officer, and the Ethics Committee where appropriate,” the FIA statement clarified. “Both bodies operate autonomously, guaranteeing strict confidentiality throughout the process. Therefore, we are unable to confirm the receipt of any specific complaint and unlikely to provide further comment on complaints received.”
Red Bull’s parent company has remained silent on potential appeals processes since initially disclosing Horner’s investigation last month.
Although the initial probe concluded with the dismissal of complaints, this did not mark the end of the controversy. Just 24 hours post-decision, anonymous email addresses leaked alleged evidence central to the investigation, though Red Bull neither confirmed nor denied the dossier’s authenticity.
It’s been revealed that an investigation has been launched into the leakage of information to the media surrounding the situation’s eruption, including how journalists became aware of the confidential probe.
Despite suggestions from Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix that suspension could be imminent due to the ongoing investigation, he continues to fulfill his role.
Horner has remained steadfast in his position throughout the investigation’s duration, expressing hope that media attention would shift following the conclusion of the initial probe.
Addressing the matter at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Horner stated, “The reality is that there was a grievance that was raised. It was dealt with most professionally by the group, not by Red Bull Racing, but by the owners of Red Bull Racing, Red Bull GmbH, that appointed an independent KC that is one of the most reputable KCs in the land.” He further emphasized the need to move forward and focus on the future, highlighting the support of his family amidst the ordeal.
Also read: Leclerc Predicts Ferrari Will Soon Exert Pressure on Red Bull in Formula 1
