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7th March 2024
12:57pm GMT
Red Bull Racing has suspended the woman who accused Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour.
The team principal had been under investigation in recent weeks after a female employee of the team accused him of “inappropriate and controlling behaviour.”
The 50-year-old vehemently denied the accusations and was cleared following an a three week investigation carried out by an external lawyer.
The Telegraph now reports that the woman who accused Christian Horner has been suspended by Red Bull.
The publication reports that the reason behind her suspension is unclear.
A Red Bull spokesperson said: “The company cannot comment on this internal matter”.
According to Helmut Marko, meanwhile, Mercedes may have already made overtures to Max Verstappen – who is currently tied down long-term at Red Bull – in their search for a replacement.
The comments from Marko, an influential figure at Red Bull Racing, come amidst a flurry of activity in the Formula 1 transfer market, with key drivers like Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris recently extending their contracts with Ferrari and McLaren, respectively.
With Max seemingly locked in at Red Bull, Marko’s suggestion that Mercedes might pursue him indicates the gravity of Hamilton’s impending departure.
When questioned about the possibility of Mercedes contacting Verstappen, Marko expressed mild surprise at the notion, noting Verstappen’s reputation as a fiercely loyal driver.
Despite this, the allure of joining a team of Mercedes’ caliber could potentially sway even the most steadfast competitors.
Hamilton’s incoming move to Ferrari marks the end of an era at Mercedes, where he has enjoyed unparalleled success, securing six of his seven championships.
Marko commended Hamilton’s exceptional skill as a driver, suggesting that if Mercedes provides him with a competitive car, he could still pose a formidable challenge for race wins and championship titles in his final year with the team.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ team principal, has reiterated his confidence in Hamilton’s integrity during this transitional period, despite the prospect of him joining a direct rival next season.
However, with Red Bull off to a strong start in 2024, winning the Bahrain Grand Prix with Verstappen leading the charge, the pressure is on Mercedes to maintain their competitive edge in the face of stiff competition.
Marko highlighted Red Bull’s ongoing commitment to innovation and risk-taking in car development, evident in the radical design of their RB20 model.
This bold approach, he claims, has allowed Red Bull to stay ahead of the curve and set the standard for the rest of the field.
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