Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been cleared of any wrongdoing for a second time following an appeal into allegations of inappropriate behavior that has been dismissed.
The matter, which had cast a shadow over the team and the sport earlier this year, has now been definitively closed.
Ahead of the start of the 2024 F1 season, Red Bull GmbH – the parent company of Red Bull Racing – made public accusations of inappropriate behavior leveled at Horner made by a female employee of the team, specifically, Horner’s personal assistant.
The allegations triggered an internal investigation, a proceeding subsequently handled by an independent King's Counsel (KC) who, after questioning Horner, concluded that the alleged victim’s claims were unfounded.
Undeterred, the complainant exercised her right to appeal the decision.
A second independent KC was appointed to oversee the appeal process. After a thorough review of the case, the appeal was dismissed.
Red Bull has accepted the findings of both investigations and confirmed that the matter is now closed.
In a statement, the company emphasized its commitment to maintaining high workplace standards.
Christian Horner with Red Bull GmbH shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya and wife Daranee.
“Earlier this year a complaint raised against Christian Horner was investigated,” read a statement from Red Bull GmbH. “That complaint was dealt with through the company's grievance procedure by the appointment of an independent KC (King's Counsel) who dismissed the grievance.
“The complainant exercised the right to appeal, and the appeal was carried out by another independent KC.
“All stages of the appeal process have now been concluded, with the final outcome that the appeal is not upheld.
“The KC's conclusions have been accepted and adopted by Red Bull. The internal process has concluded.
“The company respects the privacy of all its employees and will not be making further public comment on this matter at this time.
“Red Bull is committed to continuing to meet the highest workplace standards.”
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