Christian Horner – latest: Red Bull F1 boss faces hearing into allegations of inappropriate behaviour

“After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation.

“This process, which is already under way, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister.

“The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible.

“It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.”

As opposed to original reports, The Independent understands the hearing with Horner today will not take place at Red Bull’s HQ in Milton Keynes.

This is to avoid a media frenzy around the team’s base on Friday. It is, instead, expected to take place at a secret location in London.

An “external specialist barrister” is in charge of the investigation. A conclusion is not expected to be reached on Friday.

Christian Horner’s influence on Formula One – from the 31-year-old hotshot team principal in 2005 to unmissable mainstay of the paddock nearly 20 years on – is unquestionable. The Red Bull boss was tasked with a monumental mission when he was put in charge of the energy drink giant’s peculiar foray into the pinnacle of world motorsport in the mid-2000s. The castle he has built since has been stratospherically impressive. Case in point was last year’s near-perfect season, winning 21 out of 22 races. It has all been, perhaps, even beyond his own lofty aspirations.

But it could all come crumbling down. As details emerged on Monday, Horner is now subject to an investigation by Red Bull’s parent company, Red Bull GmbH, after a complaint of “inappropriate behaviour” was made by a female colleague. The Associated Press elaborates slightly further, claiming it is about the 50-year-old’s aggressive management style. Horner strongly denies the allegations and there will be a hearing on Friday.

Profile by Kieran Jackson:

A report emerged in the Dutch media on Monday that a Red Bull employee had made a serious allegation about the team principal of the team’s parent company, Red Bull GmbH.

Additional reports detailed that the complaint came from a female colleague and was with regard to “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” from Horner, who has been the Red Bull team principal since 2005 and will remain in his role during the investigation and strongly denies the accusation.

The allegations are being treated seriously by Red Bull chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff. When approached by The Independent, Red Bull Racing refused to comment on the matter. Red Bull launch their 2024 car next Thursday (15 February).