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Christian Horner Case: Woman Who Made Allegations Returns to F1 Role
Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Image

The woman who made allegations against former Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has returned to work in F1, according to BBC

The individual has not been identified to the public. In March 2024, Red Bull had suspended her following her complaints but she is now back with a different role in F1. Both she and her new employer have refused to comment on the matter, highlighting the sensitivity of the case. 

Red Bull sacked Horner in July this year. He has led the Milton-Keynes based team to six constructors’ championships and oversaw the rise of Max Verstappen. But while sacking him, the team gave no formal explanation for its decision. 

It came amid ongoing on-track struggles, management struggles and uncertainty about Verstappen’s future with the team. Verstappen has since confirmed that he will remain with Red Bull through 2026, ending speculation over a possible move to Mercedes. 

The controversy surrounding Horner began in December 2023, when the complainant wrote to Red Bull alleging sexual harassment and coercive, controlling behaviour. Horner consistently denied the claims, and an internal investigation dismissed the allegations in February 2024, just before the new F1 season began. 

However, the situation escalated when a batch of WhatsApp messages, allegedly involving Horner, was leaked to senior F1 figures and media outlets. Horner refused to verify their authenticity, calling them “anonymous, speculative messages from an unknown source.” 

A second Red Bull inquiry, after the complainant appealed, reached the same conclusion as the first and cleared Horner. 

Horner is currently in negotiations with Red Bull over a termination settlement. Both he and Red Bull have been approached for comment but are yet to respond. 

The woman’s quiet return to the paddock marks a significant development in a saga that has dominated headlines in F1.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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