Horner is preparing for a long day of speaking to Red Bull investigators and feels he may need a ‘second interview’ as he fights to clear his name.
Horner has led Red Bull Racing since it was founded in 2005 and will be entering his 20th season in F1 this year.
The team will launch the RB20 next week ahead of a new campaign that begins in Bahrain in March.
However, there are concerns that the investigation into Mr Horner’s “inappropriate and controlling behavior” may not be resolved by the time the car is unveiled on February 15th.
Christian Horner is under investigation
getty
Horner vehemently denies the allegations against him and wants to clear his name.
On Monday, it was announced that Red Bull had launched an independent investigation into allegations made by a female staff member.
“After becoming aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation,” Red Bull said in a statement.
“This process is already underway and is being carried out by external specialist lawyers.
“We take this matter extremely seriously and will complete our investigation as soon as possible. It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”
The investigation process was due to take place at the team’s headquarters in Milton Keynes, but has reportedly been forced to move to another location.
Sky Sports claims it will instead be held at a secret location in “central London”.
This is reportedly seen as more of a meeting or interview with Horner than a hearing with Red Bull team principals.
Christian Horner has been in charge of Red Bull since 2005.
getty
The 50-year-old man was ready for meetings for most of the day and is said to be “ready for a second interview” with investigators.
A final verdict is not expected by the end of Friday, with some suggesting the investigation may still be ongoing when the Red Bull car is unveiled next week.
The female staff member has reportedly already met with investigators and provided “evidence” during the interrogation.
Latest sports news:
Geri Halliwell stands beside her husband
getty
Horner is the longest-serving team principal on the F1 grid, but some reports suggest Red Bull GmbH managing director Oliver Mintzlaff could be a potential candidate to replace him.
Red Bull won both the constructors’ and drivers’ championships for the second year in a row and will aim to maintain their dominance in the sport this season.
Max Verstappen dominated his rivals last year and is still the man to beat heading into 2024.