Christian Horner news: F1 and FIA discussing next steps after alleged Horner 'message leak'

Christian Horner looks on dejectedly as FIA flag flies in the background — Photo: © IMAGO

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F1 and FIA discussing next steps after alleged Horner 'message leak'

The Brit was originally cleared by an internal investigation

Sam Cook Digital Journalist

Sports Journalist who has been covering motorsport since 2023

Saturday 2 March 2024 00:57

Formula 1 and the FIA are discussing what to do with the file of alleged text messages featuring Christian Horner which was sent to them on Thursday.

Red Bull team principal Horner was the subject of an internal investigation by the team's parent company over allegations of 'inappropriate behaviour' from a female employee, which concluded on Wednesday.

The Brit was cleared of any wrongdoing and has remained as boss of the world champions throughout, claiming at the Bahrain Grand Prix that he was 'pleased' the process had been completed.

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However, the saga turned its head once more on Thursday, when files which allegedly showed Horner's messages were sent to 149 accounts up and down the F1 paddock, including team principals and F1 bosses.

Christian Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing by an internal investigation into his conduct

However, files allegedly showing supposed messages from Christian Horner were leaked on Thursday

Horner verdict discussed by F1

In response to the alleged messages specifically, Horner released a statement late on Thursday following practice for the Bahrain GP.

"I won't comment on anonymous speculation," he said. "But, to reiterate, I have always denied the allegations. I respected the integrity of the independent investigation and fully co-operated with it every step of the way.

"It was a thorough and fair investigation conducted by an independent specialist barrister and it has concluded, dismissing the complaint made. I remain fully focused on the start of the season."

Meanwhile a spokesperson for Red Bull GmbH, the wider brand who were responsible for the running of the internal investigation, said: "This is a private matter between Mr Horner and another and it would be inappropriate for Red Bull to comment on this."

Red Bull Mercedes McLaren F1 Christian Horner FIA