The future of Christian Horner, one of the most successful team principals in Formula 1 history, looks uncertain as he awaits the conclusion of an internal investigation against him. The probe was launched when allegations of ‘inappropriate behavior’ against one of Red Bull Racing‘s female employees were released by the Dutch media. These allegations came when Christian Horner was in full preparation mode for Red Bull’s title defense. However, there have been rumors going around that the timing of these allegations amid the power struggle within Red Bull might not just be a coincidence.
Since the passing of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, there have been rumors indicating an increasing tension between Christian Horner and Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, as both individuals hold authority over different aspects of Red Bull Racing’s operations. Could the ongoing investigation against Horner, prompted by the allegations, be a consequence of the power struggle that has reached a critical stage within Red Bull? Let us examine the available information thus far.
Red Bull’s loss of trust in Christian Horner shows signs of internal struggle.
In 2023, there were rumors circulating that Christian Horner was attempting to increase his influence within Red Bull Racing, potentially at the cost of Helmut Marko. However, both individuals promptly dismissed these speculations.
Horner stated to the Daily Mirror in October that despite occasional disagreements, their bond remains strong. Likewise, Marko clarified in an interview with Sky Sports that they have a long-standing relationship and have successfully constructed the entire venture together.
But as soon as the Dutch morning newspaper De Telegraaf published the report on the accusations against Horner, Red Bull immediately released a statement that said the company was launching a strict internal investigation while Red Bull Racing denied any knowledge of such allegations. Officials from Red Bull [we don’t know the identity of said officials] even went as far as to advise Christian Horner to step down from his role as RBR’s team principal. According to De Telegraaf, this was a clear sign of how things will unfold as reported by GP Blog.
Is it possible that Helmut Marko might have conspired against Christian Horner following the power struggle between the two? After Marko’s contract extension, journalist Christian Nimmervoll spoke to Marko, who deflected the question of having conspired against Christian Horner. According to his tweet, “Helmut Marko continues to refuse to talk to me about the topic. Only when I asked him whether he wasn’t actually behind a conspiracy against Horner he says: ‘Horner has done a great job over the years.’”
However, it must be noted that this neither proves nor disproves anything. These are still just rumors circling in the F1 community at this point and there is no evidence for or against them whatsoever.
What’s also interesting to note is that the story was initially leaked from one of the largest Dutch newspapers, also hinting at potentially strained relationships behind the scenes, particularly between Horner and Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, who is closely associated with Helmut Marko. Even Max Verstappen is believed to be loyal to Marko instead of his team boss, Christian Horner.
Red Bull Racing is set to launch their 2024 challenger as planned on February 15th and they need to be prepared regardless of the outcome of the investigation.
The fact that Red Bull’s parent company has personally taken action demonstrates their seriousness in addressing the matter. Despite the confirmation that Horner will remain in his position until the investigation is concluded, he is scheduled to attend the hearing on Friday to address the allegations against him.
There are suggestions from German and Austrian media, who have close connections with Red Bull Racing and their advisor Helmut Marko, that Horner’s time as team principal may come to an end as his future with the team remains uncertain.
If the allegations are proven to be true, there have been speculations about a replacement for Horner. It is highly probable that Team Manager Jonathan Wheatley will assume the role of interim team principal until the situation is resolved internally.