Christian Horner’s Formula One future is back in the spotlight after WhatsApp messages appearing to be sent by him were leaked.
Horner was cleared on Wednesday to continue as Red Bull team principal following an internal probe by the F1 team’s parent company Red Bull GmbH.
But just 24 hours later, hundreds of messages and a number of images apparently between Horner and the complainant were sent from an anonymous email account to members of the Formula One paddock.
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The recipients of the alleged messages included FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and the grid’s nine other team principals, as well as the media — on the eve of this weekend’s season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.
It is unclear whether the alleged exchanges, which have been seen by the PA news agency, formed part of the Red Bull investigation which cleared Horner of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female colleague — or whether it is new evidence.
Horner responded in a statement on Thursday night: “I will not comment on anonymous speculation, 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.”
Horner, 50, was on the Red Bull pit wall on Thursday for both practice sessions.
Speaking on Sky Sports earlier, he had said: “I am pleased that the process is over, and I cannot comment about it.
“I am here to focus on the grand prix and the season ahead and trying to defend both of our titles.”
Horner added: “I can’t give you any further comment, but the process has been conducted and concluded.
“I am pleased to be here in Bahrain, and with the team, focused on the season ahead. Within the team, the unity has never been stronger.”
Horner, who protested his innocence throughout the investigation, was questioned by a lawyer for eight hours earlier this month at a secret London location.
Horner has been Red Bull team principal since they entered F1 19 years ago and is the longest-serving boss on the grid.
He has overseen seven drivers’ world championships and six constructors’ titles.
Red Bull have dominated the sport in recent seasons and last year won 21 of the 22 races, with Dutch driver Max Verstappen setting a new record for 10 consecutive victories as he wrapped up his third title.
Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, was awarded a CBE for his services to motorsport in the New Year Honours.