Red Bull has reportedly suspended a female employee who accused team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behavior. The suspension, with full pay, comes in the aftermath of an independent investigation that cleared Horner of any misconduct. The reason for the suspension is said to be related to the findings of the inquiry, although Red Bull has declined to comment on the matter.
The employee has the right to appeal the verdict, while Horner himself was not suspended during the investigation. Shortly after the investigation concluded, private messages allegedly between Horner and the accuser were leaked to various individuals, including F1 executives and journalists.
Horner, who is married to former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, has not confirmed the authenticity of the leaked messages. The situation has caused tension within the Red Bull team, with Jos Verstappen, father of world champion driver Max Verstappen, expressing concerns that the team could face internal strife if Horner remains in his position.
Despite the controversy, Max Verstappen has stood by his father's comments and emphasized his outspoken nature. The reigning world champion recently won the first race of the F1 season, with Halliwell showing support by being present at the event. The couple shares a son together, while Halliwell has a daughter from a previous relationship and Horner has a daughter from his first marriage.
