Horner misconduct appeal dismissed, Red Bull F1 boss cleared

Red Bull has announced an appeal against an investigation clearing its Formula 1 boss Christian Horner of wrongdoing has not been upheld.

On the eve of the 2024 F1 season, Horner faced allegations of misconduct by a female employee of the F1 team, which prompted an internal investigation by Red Bull's Austrian parent company led by an independent barrister.

Following an eight-week probe the grievances against Horner were dismissed. The female employee, who was suspended as a result of the findings of the investigation, then decided to appeal the findings of the probe.

That appeal, which was handled by another independent barrister, has now also been dismissed, Red Bull GmbH announced on Thursday.

"Earlier this year a complaint raised against Christian Horner was investigated. The complaint was dealt with through the company's grievance procedure by the appointment of an independent KC who dismissed the grievance," a press statement read.

"The complainant exercised the right to appeal, and the appeal was carried out by another independent KC. All stages of the appeal process have now been concluded, with the final outcome that the appeal is not being upheld.

Christian Horner, Team Principal, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool

"The KC's conclusions have been accepted and adopted by Red Bull. The internal process has concluded.

"The company respects the privacy of all its employees and will not be making further public comment on this matter at this time.

"Red Bull is committed to continuing to meet the highest workplace standards."

Autosport understands Red Bull's Austrian parent company is considering its next steps, while the female employee - who is still employed by the team - remains suspended for now.

The Red Bull F1 team now considers the matter as closed.