Christian Horner has called for a swift resolution to the investigation into his conduct, as the Red Bull team principal faces allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Speaking at Formula One pre-season testing in Bahrain, Horner declined to comment on the specifics of the case but expressed a desire for the process to conclude quickly.
The inquiry, launched by Red Bull's parent company on 5 February, follows a complaint from a female employee alleging controlling behaviour. An independent barrister is leading the investigation and has already interviewed Horner extensively. No timeline has been provided for its conclusion.
Horner faced the media for the first time since the allegations emerged, having previously stated his innocence at the launch of Red Bull's new car. When asked if he should have stepped aside during the investigation, he said: 'There is a process going on which I form part of... I am really not at liberty to comment about the process.'
Rival team principals have called for transparency. Mercedes' Toto Wolff urged a rigorous and transparent process, while McLaren's Zak Brown described the allegations as 'extremely serious' and stressed the need for a swift resolution to avoid damaging Formula One's reputation.
On the track, the second day of testing was disrupted when Charles Leclerc's Ferrari dislodged a drain cover, halting the morning session. The afternoon session was extended, with Ferrari's Carlos Sainz setting the fastest time, seven-tenths ahead of Red Bull's Sergio Pérez. Lewis Hamilton completed 123 laps for Mercedes, reporting improved handling in the team's new car.
