March 2nd 2024.
Christian Horner and Geri Halliwell were seen basking in the glory of Max Verstappen's victory in Bahrain, along with Red Bull co-owner Chalerm Yoovidhya. Despite recent controversy, Horner maintains that he has the full backing of the team's owners.
The scandal surrounding Horner, in which he was accused of inappropriate behavior by a Red Bull employee, had cast a dark cloud over the team in the lead up to the new season. However, Horner was cleared of all allegations just before the start of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Unfortunately, the drama did not end there as texts and images between Horner and his accuser were leaked to the media and members of the F1 community. This has put a strain on Horner's marriage to former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, who was by his side in Bahrain.
Despite this, the Red Bull team had a lot to celebrate as their star driver, Max Verstappen, claimed a dominant victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix. In an interview with Sky Sports after the race, Horner maintained his innocence and expressed his confidence in the support of the entire team, including its owners.
He reassured, "We are a very strong team, united in our support. We have tremendous partners and great shareholders behind us. You don't achieve this kind of result without being united."
When asked if he would still be in his role for the next race in Saudi Arabia, Horner responded defiantly, "Absolutely. I wouldn't be here otherwise." He also had the support of Red Bull co-owner Chalerm Yoovidhya, who was seen chatting with Horner on the grid before the race.
As the investigation into Horner's alleged behavior continues, here's a timeline of how the scandal has unfolded:
- On February 5th, Red Bull confirmed an investigation into Horner over allegations of controlling behavior.
- On February 9th, Horner underwent an eight-hour hearing with an independent lawyer.
- On February 15th, Horner publicly addressed the allegations for the first time at Red Bull's car launch, stating his full denial.
- On February 16th, fresh allegations emerged in a Dutch newspaper, claiming Horner sent messages of a suggestive nature to a female employee.
- From February 21st to 23rd, Horner attended Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain and expressed his hope for a quick resolution.
- On February 23rd, the sixth series of F1: Drive to Survive was released on Netflix, featuring Horner and his wife Geri Halliwell.
- On February 28th, Horner was cleared of all allegations by Red Bull, with the option for the complainant to appeal.
- From February 29th to March 2nd, the Formula 1 season began with the Bahrain Grand Prix.
- On February 29th, WhatsApp messages and images between Horner and the complainant were leaked to the media.
- On March 1st, Horner had a meeting with F1's CEO and the President of the FIA regarding the leaked messages.
- Despite the ongoing investigation, Max Verstappen's victory in Bahrain was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Red Bull team.
As for matters on the track, Horner was proud of the team's performance, stating, "It's a great team effort and a strong evolution. You can see the aggressive revolution and the innovative ideas on the car." Despite the controversy, Red Bull remains united and focused on their goal of winning the championship.
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