Red Bull has reportedly suspended the female employee involved in the allegations of inappropriate behaviour directed at Christian Horner.
Horner faced an eight-week investigation by an independent lawyer appointed by Red Bull in the wake of the allegations.
The probe involved analyzing evidence and interviewing key figures within the team. On the eve of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing.
Red Bull's official statement at the time confirmed the investigation's completion and dismissal of the grievance, while acknowledging the complainant's right to appeal.
While details of the investigation's findings remain undisclosed, reports suggest that the employee who made the initial accusations has been impacted.
It is understood that this individual remained employed by Red Bull until recently but was suspended this week. It is also rumored that she has initiated legal action against Red Bull, a move that may have triggered her suspension.
Red Bull has yet to release an official statement regarding the suspension, and a spokesperson declined to confirm any details.
If the suspension is confirmed, this would certainly add another level of intrigue to the ongoing case.
Last week at Sakhir, news of Horner’s exoneration saw the wave of conjecture and speculation die down.
It was but a short respite however as 24 hours later an anonymous source leaked alleged evidence from the investigation to key figures in F1, including rival team principals and media outlets.
This leak cast a shadow over the investigation's integrity and revived speculation that someone is clearly desperate to bring Horner down, though no concrete evidence has emerged to support such a claim.
Adding to the pressure, Jos Verstappen, father of Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, publicly criticized Horner following last weekend’s race, a move that produced further turmoil inside Red Bull Racing.
Meanwhile, Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff's is expected to be present at Jeddah this weekend, and all eyes will be on him to see if he addresses the recent controversy surrounding the F1 team and Horner.
Rumors suggest unease within the Austrian arm of Red Bull regarding the handling of the allegations and subsequent suspension of the employee.
Mintzlaff's potential comments, or lack thereof, could offer valuable insights into the team's internal dynamics and their next steps in navigating this complex situation.
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