Due to an inquiry into his unethical behavior, former Formula One driver Giedo van der Garde thinks Christian Horner may depart Red Bull as early as next week, calling it “a blemish” on the Austrian team’s reputation. On Friday, a hearing regarding a complaint lodged against the fifty-year-old will take place.
Although Horner claims he refutes the accusations, Red Bull has not confirmed the specifics of the complaint. According to the BBC, it has to do with acting in an improper and domineering manner. Van der Garde, a former Sauber driver, believes that the accusations constitute a “blemish” on the Red Bull brand. He expects Horner to be gone by February 15, when Red Bull unveils their RB20 vehicle.
Of course, Red Bull has internal supervision over Horner. On his DRS: De Race Show podcast, Van der Garde stated, “Believe me, Horner will not be there presenting when that event comes around next week.
This is clearly theatrical for Red Bull, and they also have such presentations the next week. Red Bull will return with an extremely strong vehicle, so they will have a fantastic season overall. However, this puts some damage on both the team and the brand. Since 2005, when Red Bull entered the Formula One World Championship, Horner has served as the team’s principal. He has been a part of Max Verstappen’s three consecutive world titles and has overseen six Constructors’ Championship victories.
However, his future is currently uncertain. Red Bull claims to be taking the accusations “very seriously,” and Horner will be questioned by a separate attorney. Other pertinent parties reportedly have previously been questioned on the claims.
Red Bull released a statement following the release of the allegations on Monday. “After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation,” the statement read.
This process is now underway and is being handled by a third-party specialized barrister. The business takes these issues very seriously, and the inquiry will be finished as soon as it is viable to do so. Further comments would not be acceptable at this time.
Up to the age of 25, Horner pursued a career in racing before deciding to become an F1 team management. Red Bull is expected to unveil their new vehicle on February 15 and hold the first Grand Prix of the 2024 season on March 2 in Bahrain.
