Christian Horner points finger at F1 rivals ‘taking advantage’ of Red Bull scandal

Christian Horner has hit out as the scandal over the allegations of ‘inappropriate behaviour’ against him continues to rumble on, with his accuser having been suspended by Red Bull

Christian Horner has claimed that his competitors in Formula 1 are exploiting the controversy surrounding the accusations of ‘inappropriate behavior’ that he has been confronted with.

A female staff member accused Horner at Red Bull just before the start of pre-season testing. Following this, Red Bull initiated an external inquiry that found Horner innocent prior to the Bahrain Grand Prix opening the season.

After the announcement that he had been exonerated, communications were revealed to the press supposedly demonstrating discussions between Horner and his coworker.

The boss, who is 50 years old, vehemently refuted the charges and continues to assert his innocence.

However, the story has continued to rumble on, with reigning champion Max Verstappen’s father Jos calling for Horner to be replaced. Now the Red Bull team principal has hit out at those he feels are attempting to create division – and insisted that some on the grid were trying to take advantage of the allegations against him.

“The only reason that this has gained so much attention, obviously, is because of the leakage, and the tension that has been drawn in the media. Which has been very, very trying, in many respects,” he said ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

“Particularly for my family, because it’s all been focused very much in one direction. What has happened, then after, is that others have looked to take advantage of it. Unfortunately Formula 1 is a competitive business.

“There’s been obviously elements looking to benefit from it. That’s perhaps the not-so-pretty side of our industry. It’s a complicated issue because there is a grievance process that takes place in any company.

“That process is confidential between the individuals. I’m not at liberty, unfortunately, due to that confidentiality, and out of respect to the company and, of course, the other party. We’re all bound by the same restrictions and so even if I would like to talk about it, I can’t because of those confidentiality restrictions.”

On Thursday, there were widespread reports that Red Bull had put on hold the women who made accusations against Horner.

The team did not provide any additional details but mentioned in a statement: “It is not appropriate for the company to discuss this internal issue.” Horner is confident that despite a rumored split between him and Verstappen’s team, the Dutch driver will honor his contract with Red Bull.

He stated that Verstappen still trusts the team and has faith in them.

Horner believes that Verstappen will fulfill his long-term contract as he has a strong team supporting him and they have achieved a lot together.

“He has dedicated himself to a contract until 2028, and both the team and Max are resolved to continue building on the success we have already attained.”