Future of Red Bull's Christian Horner in the balance after eight-hour hearing into 'inappropriate behaviour'

The career of Red Bull’s Formula One boss Christian Horner remains in the balance after an eight-hour hearing on Friday into allegations of “inappropriate behaviour”.

Christian Horner in September. Pic: Reuters

Mr Horner, 50, categorically denies the claims, which were made by a female colleague and prompted Red Bull to launch an independent investigation.

The hearing was held at a secret London location – after it had initially been scheduled to take place at Red Bull Racing’s headquarters in Milton Keynes.

The venue was changed due to the extensive publicity surrounding the case.

It is understood to be unlikely that Mr Horner’s future will be decided before Red Bull unveils its car for the new season next Thursday.

He is facing potential further rounds of questioning and the investigation may not be wrapped up before pre-season testing gets underway on 21 February or by the opening round of the season in Bahrain on 2 March.

Geri Horner and Christian Horner at the 2023 BAFTA Film Awards. Pic: Reuters

Mr Horner remains in his role, and it is anticipated that he will attend the team’s season launch in Milton Keynes next week.

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A spokesperson for Red Bull said on Monday: “After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation.

“This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister.”

Red Bull added: “The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.”

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen in June 2023. Pic: Reuters

Mr Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, has been team principal at Red Bull since they entered Formula One 19 years ago.

In that time, the team has won seven drivers’ world championships, including three with Max Verstappen, and six constructors’ titles.

Mr Horner has gained fame in recent years following appearances on the Netflix series Formula 1: Drive To Survive.

He was also awarded a CBE for his services to motorsport in the New Year Honours List.