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

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.

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.

READ MORE: Journalist reveals Horner ‘messages’ LEAKED in anonymous email

McLaren CEO Zak Brown and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff had both said during a press conference on Thursday that they believed an external investigation was needed, calling on both F1 and the FIA to look into the allegations.

Horner verdict discussed by F1

Now, the BBC are reporting that the alleged messages have been 'brought to the attention' of the sport's governing bodies, and that discussions are ongoing between F1 management and the FIA.

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."

READ MORE: Horner Red Bull investigation official VERDICT announced

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