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      Mercedes star stripped of race win in rarely seen incident because team were too busy celebrating her victory

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      A MERCEDES star was stripped of a win after failing to realise the race was over in a rarely seen incident.A huge mix up meant the driver went past the chequered flag TWICE and was demoted from first to ninth.Mercedes-backed F1 Academy driver Doriane Pin saw her second race win stripped awayCredit: GettyPin had bizarrely continued racing after the race the had finished because she had not been told to stopCredit: RexRace Control handed Pin a 20-second penalty which demoted her from P1Credit: RexIt came in the all-female F1 Academy, which was enjoying it’s first weekend of the season in Saudi Arabia alongside the Formula One action.And while British 18-year-old Oliver Bearman took the headlines in F1 for his impressive P7 finish for Ferrari, it was a stripped race win for Doriane Pin which sparked controversy in the sister series.Pin, 20, had dominated on track throughout the weekend, claiming pole in qualifying before winning both of the weekend’s races.However, Mercedes-backed Pin saw her victory in the second race cruelly taken away in a rarely seen sequence of events. READ MORE IN F1After taking the chequered flag, Pin’s Prema team were busy celebrating the double win on the pit wall.But because her engineers were too busy toasting her success, Pin continued to drive around the Jeddah Corniche Circuit at race speed on what should have been the cooldown lap.Pin went on to complete two full laps before the red flag was shown to stop her.As a result of her driving much faster than she should have been, Race Control had to impose a drive-through penalty as per the rules, but because it could not be applied mid-race it was applied afterwards. Most read in MotorsportCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL This converted into a 20-second time penalty and consequently caused Pin to drop to P9 in the standings, allowing Alpine junior Abbi Pulling to inherit the win in race two.F1 Academy explained: “Doriane Pin has received a drive-through penalty for crossing the chequered flag twice and completing two laps at full speed until the red flag was shown.Brit F1 sensation Oliver Bearman, 18, seals impressive 7th in first ever GP as Max Verstappen wins in Saudi Arabia”As the penalty could not be served in-race, it has been converted into a 20-second penalty added to her elapsed race time.”Following the race Pin said a radio issue meant she kept going at race speed as she was unsure whether it was the last lap or not.She said: “I had a little bit of an issue with the radio. I couldn’t hear anything by the engineers so I didn’t know if it was the last lap or not. I kept pushing in case it was.”It had not been evident on the broadcast as her engineer asked: “Doriane, what are you doing? It’s the chequered flag.” To which she replied: “You didn’t tell me!”One of the craziest things i’ve ever seen in racing. Dorian Pin wins the race, but her engineers are too busy celebrating to tell her, so she keeps barrelling down the track at full speed, to the confusion of everyone pic.twitter.com/PqKnAW7nTq— 2Fast2Sickos (@2Fast2Sickos) March 9, 2024

      After having the win stripped away, Pin took to social media to say: “An unfortunate end to an incredible first weekend in F1 Academy, the team and the car were amazing, but a post race penalty drops me to P9. “Will come back even stronger in Miami. Congrats to @AbbiPulling on P1.”The change sees Pulling also inherit the lead of the drivers championship with 44 points.Ferrari-coloured Maya Weug is also now above Pin on 33 points with the Pin herself sitting on 32 points, 14 clear of McLaren-backed Bianca Bustamante.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe next event for F1 Academy will be in Miami between May 3 and 5.Meanwhile, the next F1 race will be in Australia on March 24.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      ‘We’re always grateful’, says Christian Horner as he hails wife Geri Halliwell in Mother’s Day post amid sexting scandal

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      RED Bull boss Christian Horner has shared a series of snaps of his wife Geri Halliwell to Instagram wishing her a happy Mother’s Day.The post comes amid the storm of controversy currently surrounding Geri’s marriage with scandal-hit Horner.Red Bull boss Christian Horner posted a tribute to his wife Geri on InstagramCredit: InstagramHorner said he was ‘always grateful’ for the mums in his familyCredit: InstagramThe couple cuddles up at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah yesterdayCredit: ReutersTwo pictures showed Geri, 51, holding the couple’s seven-year-old son Monty, while a third picture showed his own mother Sara.Horner’s post read: “Happy Mother’s Day – So appreciative of the mums in our family for everything they do.”We’re always grateful, today and every day.”Horner, 50, and Geri have been married since 2015.Read more on Christian HornerThe F1 chief was cleared of any wrongdoing last month after a female colleague made bombshell claims about his behaviour.But a “sext bomb” of flirty messages supposedly sent by Horner to his accuser were then leaked to hundreds of journalists, keeping him – and his wife Geri – firmly in the limelight.In a display of unity, the Spice Girl joined her husband at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix yesterday after his sext messages were leaked.Geri appeared red-eyed last week as she and Horner walked through the F1 paddock at the Bahrain Grand Prix, kissing and holding hands.Most read in MotorsportThe former popstar was understood to be mid-air, en route to Bahrain, when the hundreds of flirty messages were leaked.She appeared to be more relaxed yesterday in Jeddah.Spice Girl Geri Horner looks incredible as she slips into stylish swimsuit for lake day with her kidsInsiders said Geri had spent time relaxing in Dubai before the recent F1 event and was in a better frame of mind than in Bahrain when the Red Bull “sext bomb” had just dropped.Geri arrived at the trackside yesterday wearing a long-sleeved white dress cinched by a belt with a large gold clasp, chatting with Red Bull employees and cuddling up with Horner during the team’s podium celebrations.Body language Judi James expert told The Sun that there may have been more to the couple’s show of togetherness.She said Geri “appears to dominate her husband with her body language” and suggested her “very visible and quite dramatic profile” hinted that the display of unity “might be partly under her terms”.Geri is reportedly “in turmoil” over the sexting scandal and having “second thoughts” over the Spice Girls’ upcoming 30th anniversary reunion.A source told the Mail that she wants “a low-profile existence now”.It was said that Geri wanted Horner’s accuser, who worked at Red Bull’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks, “out of the picture”.Horner was said to have found it impossible to comply as he and the woman had to be in regular contact at work.It comes asThe unidentified woman was suspended after the row hit breaking point and the “sexually suggestive” messages were leaked.A source told The Sun the employee was suspended on full pay while internal inquiries continued.There is no suggestion that Geri’s wish to have the woman taken “out of the picture” is what led to the suspension.Geri was said to be “too upset” to talk to “anyone” when news of the allegations broke last month.A defiant Horner this week insisted it was time to “draw a line” under the situation and “focus on what is going on on track”.He also heaped praise on his “phenomenally supportive” wife and admitted it had been a “trying” time.Horner said on Thursday: “My wife has been ­phenomenally supportive throughout this as have my family.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s obviously been a very trying period. I’m married and have three children.”When that intrusion includes your children and the scrutiny that is placed on my marriage, I’m very fortunate that I have a beautiful family and a very supportive wife. And I’m the only one that has been named in this.”Christian Horner also shared a snap of his own mother Sara in the Mother’s Day postCredit: InstagramThe Spice Girl appears to ‘dominate her husband’ by using most of their shared space, says a body language expertCredit: GettyHorner and Geri talk in the Paddock yesterday during the Saudi F1 Grand PrixCredit: GettyGeri and Horner hold hands at the Bahrain Grand Prix last weekCredit: Getty More

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      Oliver Bearman set to return to F1 next season with different team after beating Lewis Hamilton on debut for Ferrari

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      BRITISH F1 hero Oliver Bearman is set to be rewarded with a place in F1 next season with the Haas team.The 18-year-old finished seventh for Ferrari in the Saudi Arabian GP on Saturday after just an hour-long practice session and qualifying in 11th place the previous day.Oliver Bearman impressed on his Formula 1 debutCredit: GettyThe 18-year-old beat Lewis Hamilton in the FerrariCredit: The Mega AgencyBearman impressed Hamilton with his performanceCredit: GettyBearman, who was cheered on by his dad, was called up as an 11th hour replacement for Carlos Sainz who had appendicitis.Sainz underwent surgery in Jeddah and was unable to take part in qualifying or the race, giving Essex-born Bearman his big chance.And the Ferrari young driver is now poised to be signed for next season by Haas, as part of their partnership with the Italian team.Bearman, who will also compete in the Australian GP should Sainz not be passed fit, will otherwise resume this season in Formula 2.READ MORE BEARMANHowever, he has already impressed Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton, who will join the Italian team next season.Hamilton said: “The Ferrari firstly is very strong, obviously it’s the closest to the Red Bulls.”But to be pulled out of your class and put straight into a Ferrari – a top team – and have to go straight into practice without long runs and all that sort of stuff, he’s done such a phenomenal job this weekend.”But if you’ve got the speed and the talent, then it’s another race car.Most read in MotorsportCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL He clearly had the confidence straight from the off, pushing the car to the limit.”I respect him for the job he’s done, and fully expect to see him on the grid next year or the year after.”Meet Oliver Bearman the Brit F1 star making debut with Ferrari who speaks with Italian twang and has famous brother Meanwhile, Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur was more cautious about over-hyping the teenager.He added: “The best way to help him is not to draw a conclusion, we have to take it easy.”He will have other opportunity during the season to do FP1, to test the car, and we will do it properly.”The main focus is and will stay the F2 this season where he has a huge challenge that I will keep in mind.”When asked if Sainz would be fit enough to race in Melbourne in two weeks time, he said: “It was a strange situation, we thought it was food intoxication.”He struggled a lot Thursday with fever and stomach issues and at the end he was convinced it would be much better the day after.”He was in the hospital and it was quite clear we were not going in the right direction. Thanks to the hospital in Jeddah and everybody from the organisation they did the surgery and he was completely okay.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He has the pain and is struggling to walk, but it’s a huge recovery.Now we have to be focused on Melbourne, he needs to have a good rest this week and we’ll see next week.”Bearman chats with Scuderia superstar Charles LeclercCredit: RexBearman pictured with girlfriend Estelle Ogilvy More

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      ‘Dominating’ Geri Halliwell put on show of ‘togetherness’ with ‘awkward’ scandal-hit husband Christian Horner at F1

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      GERI Halliwell appeared to “dominate” her scandal-hit Red Bull F1 boss husband Christian Horner at the Saudi F1 yesterday, according to a body language expert.The Spice Girl, 51, joined her husband at the Grand Prix after his sext messages were leaked.Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and his wife Geri Halliwell cuddle up at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah yesterdayCredit: ReutersGeri wore flowing white robes as she walked ahead of Horner who sports a ‘rather awkward-looking smile’Credit: EPAThe Spice Girl appears to ‘dominate her husband’ by using most of their shared space, says a body language expertCredit: GettyHorner, 50, was cleared of any wrongdoing last month after a female colleague made bombshell claims about his behaviour.But a “sext bomb” of flirty messages supposedly sent by the F1 chief to his accuser were then leaked to hundreds of journalists, keeping him – and his wife Geri – firmly in the limelight.The pair have continued to put on a public show of unity, including at the Bahrain Grand Prix and yesterday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.Geri arrived at the trackside yesterday wearing a long-sleeved white dress in keeping with Saudi Arabia’s strict religious dress code cinched by a belt with a large gold clasp.Read more on Geri HalliwellShe also wore matching gold earrings, light makeup, and her hair up and twisted into a bun as she chatted with Red Bull employees and cuddled up with Horner during the team’s podium celebrations.Body language expert Judi James suggested there may be more to the show of “togetherness”.She told The Sun: “Geri seems to have re-branded here in her virginal-looking, ‘surplice-chic’ flowing white robes and prim bun.”Dominating the poses, she also appears to dominate her husband with her body language, walking ahead or using the max of their shared space in front of the stage while he sports a rather awkward-looking smile.Most read in Motorsport”As they stand together it’s Geri at the rail, looking up with wide rounded eyes and with her hands clasped together as though seeking inspiration from something on stage.”Judi added that Geri’s eye expression looked “a little startled” but her smiling mouth and rounded cheeks added a sense of blissful happiness, perhaps to let the world know she is standing by her man.Ben Hunt gives update Christian Horner sexting accuser is SUSPENDED by Red Bull after Geri Halliwell’s demands she be ‘out of the picture’Pictures showed Geri standing by the rail with Horner directly behind her, while others showed them smiling together and with other Red Bull employees over cups of coffee.The expert added: “Her hand clasp involved straight rather than bent fingers, in a ‘praying hands’ shape and her crossed thumbs hint at decisive thinking.”Although Geri is offering a side-eye to Christian in some poses, the composition of their bodies, with him pressed into the back of her torso and their heads held close, again seem intended to project those important messages of togetherness, with Geri’s very visible and quite dramatic profile hinting that it might be partly under her terms.”She seems to be emphasising her own status and profile here in a rather classy way that suggests she has no intention of looking compliant or passive.”It comes asJudi continued: “Geri is the one investing most effort into their smiles over coffee and when they walk together it’s Geri walking ahead confidently while Christian appears to lean across the spatial gap to grab her arm to steer her or appearing to ‘present’ her to the fans with one hand on her back.”Geri appeared red-eyed last week as she and Horner walked through the F1 paddock at the Bahrain Grand Prix, kissing and holding hands.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Spice Girl appeared more relaxed yesterday in Jeddah.Insiders said Geri had spent time relaxing in Dubai before the F1 event and was in a better frame of mind than in Bahrain when the Red Bull “sext bomb” had just dropped.Geri looks up at the rail with wide rounded eyes and her hands clasped together as if seeking inspiration from something on stageCredit: APHer eye expression looks a little startled but her smile and cheeks add a sense of happinessCredit: AFPHorner and Geri talked yesterday in the Paddock during the Saudi F1 Grand PrixCredit: GettyGeri Halliwell looks on in the Paddock today before the Saudi Arabia F1 Grand PrixCredit: GettyGeri has continued to stand by her man in public settings throughout the scandalCredit: GettyRed Bull’s Sergio Perez celebrates with Horner after finishing second at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix PoolCredit: ReutersGeri and Horner walk in the Paddock at the Bahrain Grand Prix last week holding handsCredit: GettyThe pair continue to put on a united frontCredit: Getty More

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      Christian Horner receives more backing after sexting scandal as he shares laugh with Red Bull boss on F1 grid

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      CHRISTIAN Horner breathed a huge sigh of relief after receiving more backing from Red Bull’s bosses.Horner hugged and shared a joke with Red Bull’s CEO Franz Watzlawick on the grid before the race as both parties tried to draw a line under their recent spat.Christian Horner shakes hands with Franz Watzlawick on the grid before the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyRed Bull driver Max Verstappen, right, celebrates with Horner after winning the F1 Saudi Arabian Grand PrixCredit: APThe Red Bull team leader, seen here with his wife Geri Halliwell, was cleared of inappropriate action towards a female colleagueCredit: AFPEven Helmut Marko, the outspoken Austrian who works as Red Bull’s motorsport advisor and who had clearly aligned himself with Horner’s rival, Jos Verstappen, appealed for calm – just 24 hours after hinting he could be suspended.It marked a good day for Horner as Max Verstappen, who was again miles ahead of his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez.It was Verstappen’s 56th win and his 100th podium in yet another crushing display that will surely now concern the F1 chiefs.The Dutchman’s success goes against the model of US sports and the audience American-owned Liberty Media have tried to win over.Read More on Christian HornerVerstappen, who started on pole, said: “Overall, a fantastic weekend for the whole team and myself.”I felt really good with the car and it was the same in the race. The last stint was a bit longer than we would have liked but with the Safety Car you had to go for it.”So, the last few laps with cold tyres and backmarkers it was a bit slippery but we had good pace all-around and could manage it, so overall very pleased.”British racer Oliver Bearman impressed on his debut for Ferrari as he filled in for Carlos Sainz, who suffered appendicitis the previous day and underwent surgery.Most read in MotorsportThe Spanish ace, who was here at the track to help out Bearman’s first race in F1 where the 18-year-old was voted as Driver of the Day after finishing seventh ahead of Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton.It was a great drive from the Essex-born racer who only had one practice session to get up to speed before qualifying yesterday.Ultimate F1 team principal’s rich list including Red Bull’s Christian Horner and Mercedes boss Toto WolffMeanwhile, Oscar Piastri was fourth for McLaren behind Charles Leclerc who took the final spot on the podium.The result and the calls for clam meant Horner had a relatively normal day after a whirlwind month following the accusations of inappropriate behaviour from a female colleague.The fallout has been spectacular and while Marko has now promised to toe the line, Verstappen’s future in the team very much remains in doubt.What started as Horner’s personal controversy has morphed into a power struggle within Red Bull involving Horner, Red Bull’s head of corporate projects and investments department Oliver Mintzlaff and Red Bull majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidyah.Horner has the support of Yoovidyah while Mintzlaff, who was in Saudi Arabia but did not join Watzlawick on the grid with Horner as expected.Yoovidyah and Mintzlaff are expected to meet in Dubai on Sunday to try and heal any remaining rift between Red Bull’s Austrian and Thai fractions.The news comes after Horner told Max Verstappen he could leave the team if he wanted.It follows on from a whirlwind 10 days with Horner being cleared of inappropriate action towards a female colleague.Verstappen threatened to quit Red Bull if team advisor Helmut Marko, 80, is forced out as the fallout from the Horner investigation continues.Marko will meet Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff at the Saudi GP after being quizzed about the rumour that he could be suspended and forced to miss the next race in Australia.Horner and his wife, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, put on another show of unity at the race in the wake of the sexting allegations.SCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
      FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
      FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
      FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
      FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
      FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
      FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
      FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
      FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
      MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
      MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
      MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job. He denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
      MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
      MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.

      But her second public show of support in a week was dented by another jibe from Red Bull world champ Max Verstappen’s dad Jos, who repeated calls for Horner’s head.And he twisted the knife by revealing he supports the unidentified team employee suspended after accusing her boss and sending hundreds of “sexually suggestive” texts.On Thursday, Horner saluted his “phenomenally supportive” wife but insisted it was time to “draw a line” under the scandal.But his accuser has won the support of UK parliament equality chief Caroline Nokes who  encouraged her to take her case to an employment tribunal.The Sun revealed on Thursday that Horner’s accuser had been suspended, with insiders alleging it was over “inconsistencies” in her evidence to a barrister-led probe.READ MORE SUN STORIESPals said Horner was finding it impossible to avoid his accuser at work who among 1,600 employees at the team’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks.HR bosses stepped in and suspended her on full pay on Monday and she is currently mulling whether to appeal against the rejection of her complaint.Horner talks with Watzlawick in the Paddock before the start of the raceCredit: GettyChristian Horner was all smiles in Dubai as Red Bull bosses back himCredit: Getty More

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      Christian Horner tells Max Verstappen he can LEAVE Red Bull if he wants in latest F1 bombshell following sext scandal

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      FORMULA ONE has been rocked by yet another bombshell after Red Bull boss Christian Horner told Max Verstappen he could leave the team if he wanted.It comes after a whirlwind 10 days following Horner being cleared of inappropriate action towards a female colleague.Christian Horner gave Max Verstappen a shock messageCredit: EPAMercedes supremo Toto Wolff wold love to replace outgoing driver Lewis Hamilton with Max VerstappenCredit: GettyThe subsequent fallout has become toxic between the 50-year-old and Verstappen’s father Jos, who accused Horner of ripping the team apart.There has also been accusations of a power play at the top of the energy drink’s HQ, which is based in Austria and their Thai majority shareholder.Now, after growing frustrated by bombastic claims from Verstappen’s father, Horner appears to have called his driver’s bluff while Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said he would do” handstands” to try and get the three-time world champion in his car for next season as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement.Speaking after Verstappen won the Saudi GP, Horner said: “You can’t force somebody to be somewhere just because of a piece of paper.READ MORE TOP STORIES”If somebody didn’t want to be at this team, then you know, we’re not going to force somebody against their will to be here.”That applies whether it’s a machine operator or a designer or somebody in one of the support functions, that runs through the business.”Being involved in a team like this involves commitment and passion. And Max has that, we’ve seen that.”He’s been here since he was 18 years of age. And I have no doubt that his commitment and passion.Most read in MotorsportCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL “But no individual is bigger than the team.”We have a phenomenal car. We’ve got one seat open for next year. I probably got 16 drivers that are desperate to be in that car for next year.F1’s Christian Horner says ‘time to draw a line’ on claims of inappropriate behaviour “I’m sure every team in the paddock would love to have Max but as Toto also said the best drivers always want to be in the best cars.”Wolff was quizzed if he would want Verstappen in his team to fill the void left by Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton.He said: “I’d love to have him.”I think this is a decision that Max needs to take and there is no team up and down the grid that wouldn’t do handstands to have him in the car.”Meanwhile, Horner reiterated that he would not force his driver to stay against his wishes after being asked if he feared losing the 26-year-old.He said: “You can never say never. If a driver doesn’t want to be somewhere, then they’ll go somewhere else.”But as a team, I can’t see any reason why anybody would want to step out of this team. I think he’s got a great support around him. And he’s doing a wonderful job with a great car.”We’re focused on winning, and that’s what we do. That’s what we’ve done today. That’s how we’ve started this season.”Obviously, I’m aware of all that noise, but it hasn’t distracted the team from the job and we are one team now obviously.”We all have a common interest, which is the performance of the team and that is what comes first for every single member who has a role to play in the team.The situation of Red Bull team Consultant Helmut Marko, seen with Max Verstappen, appears uncertainCredit: Getty”From the very top to the very bottom. And without the team working in absolute harmony, it is impossible to achieve performances like this.”But if an individual doesn’t want to be at the team, we don’t force people to be here.”People are here and they work in this sport and this team because they want to be here, because they’re passionate about what they do.”It is that passion that enables us to deliver not average results, but exceptional results. And it’s that passion and commitment by every member which is the DNA of Red Bull Racing.”And that will continue not just this week, not next week. But we’ve done 20 years and will continue for the next 20 years.”It comes after Verstappen threatened to quit Red Bull if team advisor Helmut Marko, 80, is forced out as the fallout from the Horner investigation continues.Marko will meet Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff at the Saudi GP after being quizzed about the rumour that he could be suspended and forced to miss the next race in Australia.READ MORE SUN STORIESMarko, who is a Red Bull employee as opposed to a member of the race team, told the Austrian broadcaster ORF the “theoretical possibility exists”.But he added: “In the end I decide for myself what I’m going to do.” More

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      Brit F1 sensation Oliver Bearman, 18, beats Lewis Hamilton in first ever F1 GP as Max Verstappen wins in Saudi Arabia

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      OLIVER BEARMAN finished seventh in his first ever Formula One race in Saudi Arabia – even beating Brit legend Lewis Hamilton.The record-breaking 18-year-old replaced Carlos Sainz on short notice after the Spaniard underwent emergency surgery for appendicitis.Oliver Bearman impressed on his F1 debutCredit: APThe 18-year-old replaced Carlos Sainz at the last minuteCredit: GettyBearman was seen hugging his father David Bearman, whose nerves were showing in the garage throughout the weekendCredit: GettyBearman said the race was ‘fantastic’Credit: SplashBearman is dating TikTok star Estelle OgilvyChelmsford-born Bearman qualified in 11th for the Jeddah race but managed to move his way up through the field with some impressive overtakes and some strategies from rivals going in his favour.Bearman is dating Estelle Ogilvy, who is a TikTok star and law student.It may also come as a surprise that Bearman only passed his road driving test in May.Max Verstappen claimed victory number two for the season as Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez finished second amid another weekend where off-track noise around Red Bull has been gargantuan.Charles Leclerc took the final podium spot from Oscar Piastri in fourth, who had been held up for much of the mid-race by a masterful Lewis Hamilton defence. Hamilton was joined by Lando Norris in gambling by not pitting under an early safety car caused by Lance Stroll crashing into the wall.When the pair eventually opted to pit they had come out behind compatriot Bearman and could not close the gap before the chequered flag despite being on quicker soft tyres. However, the teen did finish directly behind P6 finisher George Russell, who went over with Hamilton to congratulate Bearman after the race.Most read in MotorsportCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Seven-time world champion Hamilton shared a bearhug with him while Russell gave him a handshake. The occasion was not lost on F1 fans either, with 48 per cent of the Driver of the Day vote going to Bearman.Meet Oliver Bearman the Brit F1 star making debut with Ferrari who speaks with Italian twang and has famous brother Speaking to Sky Sports F1, he said: “[I’m a] Little tired. You can probably see I don’t look my best. It was a fantastic race, pushing all the way.”I was shocked how fast we were pushing quicker every lap. “That was incredible and especially at the end where I had the two guys on softs bearing down on me, I couldn’t relax and I was always in my mirror’s pushing flat out.”But it was a really exciting and fun race.”Who is Ferrari ace Oliver Bearman?By Ben Hunt

      ESSEX boy Oliver Bearman has become Britain’s latest – and youngest – F1 star after making his debut for Ferrari.
      The 18-year-old, who only passed his driving test in May, was called up as an 11th hour replacement for Carlos Sainz, who suffered appendicitis.
      Bearman only had an hour’s practice to get up to speed with the Ferrari before qualifying for Saturday’s Saudi Arabian GP.
      And he defied the odds with a brilliant performance to take 11th on the grid – coming within just 0.036 seconds from knocking Lewis Hamilton out from qualifying.
      Bearman made the slightest of mistakes during turns 22 and 23 otherwise he’d have dumped out Hamilton from the second qualifying session.
      Bearman drove for the Haas F1 team last season in the practice sessions in Mexico City and Abu Dhabi.
      Raised in Chelmsford, and schooled at King Edward VI Grammar, he joined Ferrari’s driver academy, aged only 16.
      He quit school – against his mum’s request and moved to Modena close to Ferrari’s headquarters in northern Italy.
      He has previously won the Italian Formula Formula 4 and German Formula 4 titles , both in 2021.
      Last year he was sixth in the Formula Two championship and on Thursday he qualified for the F2 race here in Saudi Arabia on pole.

      He added: “It felt like the countdown seemed like it was going slower than normal but I think we managed it really well. “They weren’t really catching behind and I felt like I had a bit in hand in case I needed it and a bit of engine mode as well.”I found good confidence and was building throughout the race especially coming to the end of the hard stint and felt like I knew what the car was doing.”Bearman also had a cheeky mid-race comment when trying to overtake Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg for P9, telling his engineer the Haas was “so slow” before completing a move.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis P7 finish means he became the first Brit to score points on his F1 debut since Paul di Resta in 2011.Sensationally, Bearman’s six-point haul now means he is tenth in the drivers championship standings.Max Verstappen celebrated his race win with Christian HornerCredit: APBearman will be hoping his performance puts him in good stead for a seat next seasonCredit: GettyEstelle and Bearman have been keeping their relationship privateCredit: Instagram / @silly_lettuceShe has 76,000 TikTok followersCredit: Instagram / @silly_lettuceBearman’s father David is a motorsport enthusiast and was present trackside todayCredit: Instagram / @davidbearman87🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      Geri Halliwell joins scandal-hit hubby Christian Horner at F1 as he hails ‘phenomenally supportive’ wife over sext bomb

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      GERI Halliwell joined her F1 boss husband Christian Horner today at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in another public display of support.Her appearance comes after hundreds of embarrassing messages were leaked and Horner’s sext accuser was suspended from Red Bull.Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner and wife Geri talk today in the Paddock during the Saudi F1 Grand PrixCredit: GettyThe pair continue to put on a united frontCredit: GettyGeri Halliwell looks on in the Paddock today before the Saudi Arabia F1 Grand PrixCredit: GettyThe Spice girl enters the Red Bull hospitality suite at Jeddah Corniche CircuitCredit: GettyGeri, 51, was spotted arriving in the Paddock on Saturday afternoon, greeting a number of Red Bull employees before walking into the team’s motorhome.The Spice Girl last week flew to Bahrain for the first race of the Formula One season in what was an awkward show of solidarity.She has been staying in Dubai while Horner, 50, battled a female aide’s discredited claims that he bombarded her with “sexually suggestive” messages.Horner this week said he wanted to “draw a line” under the scandal while saluting his “phenomenally supportive” wife.Read more on Christian HornerGeri was left in tears when the scandal broke but has demonstrated her unwavering loyalty to her embattled husband by continuing to stand by his side in public.Fellow Spice Girl Mel B yesterday revealed how the pop girl group have rallied around Geri in the wake of her husband’s sexting scandal.She said it had been “horrible” to see her suffer and that she, Mel C, Emma Bunton, and Victoria Beckham would “take a bullet” for their friend.A source told Sun Online yesterday: “It was tough for Geri in Bahrain but she was determined to show her marriage is still strong and she will do the same at the Saudi Grand Prix.Most read in Motorsport”Christian has been full of praise for her support and she wants the world to know they are still very much a couple.”She has lived her life in the public eye for years as a Spice Girl and can deal with the attention.”Horner and Geri held hands and kissed during a stilted clinch in front of a battery of cameras at last week’s Bahrain Grand Prix, where Red Bull world champ Max Verstappen triumphed.Watch moment Christian Horner & Max Verstappen’s dad Jos have ‘heated’ exchange as team ‘torn apart’ by sext rowMeanwhile, Max’s dad Jos Verstappen claimed that Red Bull would “explode” if Horner remained in charge.Jos and Horner were seen locked in what appeared to be a fiery argument during the F1 season opener as rumours swirled that the pair had been clashing for months.The Sun revealed on Thursday that Horner’s accuser had been suspended, with insiders alleging that the aide had been sent home on full pay over “inconsistencies” in her evidence to a barrister-led probe into her boss’s conduct.Pals said Horner was finding it impossible to avoid his accuser at work who, according to insiders, demanded to continue working in regular contact with her boss among 1,600 employees at the team’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks.HR bosses stepped in and suspended her on full pay.Speaking for the first time since the woman was suspended, Jos told MailOnline: “I sympathise with the woman, with all that she went through, but we will see what happens.”SCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
      FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
      FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
      FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
      FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
      FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
      FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
      FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
      FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
      MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
      MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
      MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job. He denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
      MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
      MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.

      When asked if it was time to “draw a line” under the situation, as Horner insisted people do, Jos said: “I think it’s a bit too late for that now.”If that’s what he wants, fine, but I don’t think it will be possible.”Horner was cleared of misconduct by the probe last week but the scandal exploded 24 hours later when a “sext bomb” of hundreds of texts between the pair were leaked.He admitted this week that it had been a “trying” time for his family, which includes his wife Geri and three children.The F1 boss said: “When that intrusion includes your children and the scrutiny that is placed on my marriage, I’m very fortunate that I have a beautiful family and a very supportive wife. And I’m the only one that has been named in this.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s very challenging, because when there’s children involved, when there’s families, parents involved, it’s not pretty.”It is time now to focus on why we are here, which is to go Formula One racing.”Horner pictured in Saudi todayCredit: ReutersGeri also put on a display of unity with her F1 boss husband in Bahrain last weekCredit: GettyJos Verstappen, left, says it’s ‘too late’ for F1 boss Horner to ‘draw a line’ under the sexting scandalCredit: GettyF1 world champ Max Verstappen of Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on in the garage during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia yesterdayCredit: GettyGeri Halliwell and husband Horner kiss last week at the F1 Grand Prix of BahrainCredit: Getty More