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      Inside Christian Horner’s amazing lifestyle, from hobnobbing with Prince Harry to luxury sky breaks with Spice Girl Geri

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      THANKS to a career in F1, Christian Horner lives an epic lifestyle.While he didn’t quite make it as a driver himself, as a team principal he’s led Red Bull Racing to multiple titles.Christian Horner lives an epic lifestyle and has a combined fortune of almost £100m with wife Geri HalliwellWhen he’s not on the F1 circuit, Horner is living the high-life in his country pileHorner and wife Geri also enjoy glam holidays when he’s not on the F1 circuitIt is believed he has amassed a net worth of £50million, while pop star wife Geri Halliwell buffers their wealth furthermore with her own £40million fortune.Between them, they have connections galore that allow them to live a luxurious life.Hobnobbing with royalty in Prince Harry, a movie star in Daniel Craig, and football manager Jose Mourinho is the norm.He owns a stable in his Oxfordshire pile, and enjoys sky breaks, relaxing on yachts and fun watersports.Read Christian Horner newsCelebrity minglerWorking in the F1 paddock gives Horner access to many famous faces, who he meets on a race day.Last year, the Duke of Sussex jetted to the Austin Grand Prix as a guest of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team.And while he was spotted socialising with Toto Wolff, he made time to visit Horner for a chinwag.Ex-Chelsea boss and Formula One fan Mourinho has crossed paths a number of times with Horner.Most read in MotorsportThey mingled at a TAG Heuer Yacht Party to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Monaco Grand Prix.Ultimate F1 team principal’s rich list including Red Bull’s Christian Horner and Mercedes boss Toto WolffHe was also snapped alongside Horner at the same race in the paddock.One thing he shares in common with David Beckham is falling in love with a Spice Girl.The football legend is a Red Bull and Max Verstappen fan, and regularly attends Grand Prix races around the globe – stopping for a chat with Horner.While James Bond star Daniel Craig has socialised with the motorsport executive at the British Grand Prix and for the premiere of No Time To Die, happily posing for a selfie alongside Geri.Celebrities like Tom Holland enjoy meeting Horner in the paddockF1 fan Daniel Craig meets up with Horner and Halliwell at a James Bond premierePrince Harry was a guest of Mercedes, but popped in for a chat with Horner at the Austin Grand PrixDavid Beckham, who is also married to a Spice Girls, poses for a snap with the F1 team principalJose Mourinho and Horner’s paths have crossed many times, with the Special One enjoying the Monaco Grand PrixYachts & watersportsWhen you’re as moneyed as Horner, and you have some time off from the hectic F1 calendar, an epic break is just the ticket.He often whisks the missus away on a jet set holiday to a stunning location.Wherever they go, it’s five-star all the way.They appear to have a penchant for living the yacht life, and are snapped regularly on board a luxurious boat.Trips to amazing locations like St Lucia and St Tropez have been shared on their Instagrams.But even in his downtime, Horner craves the need for speed.Watersports like jet skiing and wind surfing fulfil that particular desire.Horner and Geri often take to the slopes for winter trips to France for some ski thrills.Event appearances at Ascot, NBA games with driver Max Verstappen, and baseball ensure he’s living his best life.Horner enjoys ski breaks with Geri to FranceCredit: InstagramExpensive beach holidays in St Lucia also give Horner and Halliwell some downtimeCredit: InstagramOn social media, Horner and Halliwell love sharing photos on board various yachtsCredit: InstagramHorner lives a luxurious existence away from his hectic sporting scheduleCredit: InstagramCraving the need for speed, Horner also enjoys watersportCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresGetting to a concert in styleUsually, helicopters are reserved for the talent.How often have you seen an act flown into Glastonbury’s Worthy Farm for a show?Well, forget the headliner – that was exactly how Horner and Geri descended upon the festival for Paul McCartney’s headlining gig back in 2022.It’s as extravagant a date night as one could get.They flew directly from their family home in Oxfordshire to Somerset to see Macca’s set.Geri shared a snap of them embarking on their trip, captioning the photo: “Date night to see a legend. @PaulMcCartney [star emoji]”Horner and Halliwell took an epic date night to Glastonbury – getting there by helicopterCredit: InstagramHorner and Halliwell share a photo backstage at Worthy FarmCredit: InstagramThe pair went to see Paul McCartney’s legendary headline set in 2022Credit: GettyStable ownerWhen Horner’s not in the paddock, or jet-setting around the world, he’s at home lauding it in his country pile.One of two residences, it’s the stable in Oxfordshire he cherishes the most.Back in 2019, he told Luxury London that the sprawling country abode was the “perfect home to relax in.””Restoring the farm has been my hobby – the way I put racing out of my mind,” he added.”The main house is finished but now the barns are being converted. We’re currently putting the finishing touches to an indoor swimming pool.”Getting into the spirit of his surroundings, Horner has been spied riding horses and tractors.This outdoorsy existence only gets better in the summer, when he uses his massive garden.Horner takes on the role as chief barbecuer, serving a spread to his family.READ MORE SUN STORIESHorner plays the role of farmer when he’s not running Red Bull RacingCredit: InstagramOften, Horner is out in his tractor and Geri rides their horsesCredit: InstagramThe power couple made restoring the farm in Oxfordshire a projectCredit: InstagramHome life sees Horner taking control of the barbecue in their huge gardenCredit: InstagramWhile even Santa paid a visit to the amazing abode one ChristmasCredit: InstagramOne Christmas, they even welcomed Santa to their abode – who surely got indulged with a glass of milk and a mince pie.High-life? No, this is THE life you would want to live. More

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      Who is Oliver Bearman? Carlos Sainz’s replacement for Ferrari at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

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      OLIVER Bearman is replacing Carlos Sainz as a Ferrari driver at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix this weekend.Here’s everything you need to know about Formula 1’s freshest face.Oliver Bearman will replace Carlos Sainz at the F1 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix at Jeddah Corniche CircuitCredit: GettyWho is Oliver Bearman?Bearman was raised in Chelmsford and studied at King Edward VI Grammar School. The talented youngster joined Ferrari’s driver academy at the age of 16.He quit school against his mother’s wishes and moved to Modena — close to Ferrari’s headquarters in northern Italy.In 2023, he came sixth in the Formula Two championship.READ MORE ON FERRARIOn March 8, 2024, Bearman qualified for the F2 race in Saudi Arabia on pole.However, he will now ditch his F2 commitments for the weekend after being promoted to replace Spaniard Sainz.Bearman has been tipped as a future star after he was snapped up as part of Ferrari’s young driver scheme.His road to the top began in 2021 as he won the F4 series in both Italy and Germany.Most read in MotorsportAfter moving up to F3, the teen sensation finished in third and was promoted to F2 in 2023 with Prema Racing.The racer featured in Mexico City and Abu Dhabi practice sessions with Haas during the 2023 season.Meet Oliver Bearman the Brit F1 star making debut with Ferrari who speaks with Italian twang and has famous brother He impressed in Mexico, where he became Britain’s youngest-ever F1 driver, finishing ahead of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso in practice.His best lap time in Mexico City — in a Haas — was just 1.6 seconds slower than triple world champion Max Verstappen, and three tenths adrift of experienced teammate, Nico Hulkenberg.Bearman will be the 165th British F1 driver and the first to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari car since Eddie Irvine 25 years ago.His chance comes ahead of Lewis Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari in 2025, but Bearman says it was fellow Brit Jenson Button who was his boyhood hero.What is Oliver Bearman’s net worth?Reports of Oliver’s net worth are limited and vary, but not dramatically.F2 drivers are thought to typically earn between £80,000 to £150,000 per year, but pick up more money through sponsorship deals.WikiAndFact estimates his fortune to be roughly £1million.Whereas Woxikon says he has amassed around $2million (£1.6million) in his career so far.As an up-and-coming racer who’s about to compete in his first Grand Prix, it’s safe to assume his wealth is set to rise.When did Oliver Bearman join Ferrari?Bearman has been part of the Ferrari Driver Academy since 2021.He is currently the reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari and Haas.His F1 Grand Prix debut will be at the 2024 Saudi GP.Why is he replacing Carlos Sainz in the Saudi Arabia Gran Prix?Sainz will miss the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024 to undergo emergency surgery after being diagnosed with appendicitis.He was reportedly in hospital, having fallen ill since touching down in Jeddah.Sainz came third in the opening race of the season in Bahrain on March 2, 2024.But Saturday’s Saudi GP will see Oliver Bearman replace him.When will Oliver Bearman be racing in F1 Grand Prix?Bearman will be on the starting line for the Saudi GP at the age of 18.The F1 race in Saudi runs to a similar schedule to the Bahrain Grand Prix, meaning qualifying will take place a day earlier than usual.READ MORE SUN STORIESQualifying for the Saudi Arabian GP will begin at 8pm local time (5pm UK time) on Friday, March 8, 2024.The Saudi Arabian GP will start at 8pm local time (5pm UK time) on Saturday, March 9, 2024. More

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      Geri Halliwell WILL now attend Saudi Grand Prix after Christian Horner sext accuser’s shock suspension from Red Bull

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      SPICE Girl Geri Halliwell will join sext probe husband Christian Horner at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix tomorrow in another public show of support.Geri, 51, will stand by her man again with his Red Bull team – a week after an awkward show of solidarity in Bahrain after hundreds of embarrassing messages were leaked.Christian Horner has heaped praise on his supportive wife, Spice Girl Geri HalliwellCredit: GettyHorner arrives in the paddock on March 8 for the Saudi Arabia Grand PrixCredit: GettyGeri put on a display of unity with her Red Bull racing boss husband in BahrainCredit: GettyHorner was quizzed during a press conference ahead of Saudi Arabia’s raceCredit: GettyThe pop icon has been staying in Dubai as 50-year-old Horner battled a female aide’s discredited claims that he bombarded her with “sexually suggestive” messages.Team principal Horner said he wanted to “draw a line” under the scandal yesterday while saluting his “phenomenally supportive” wife.And Geri – who was left in tears when the scandal broke – will demonstrate her unwavering loyalty again tomorrow at her embattled husband’s side.A source told Sun Online today: “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.Read more on Horner“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.But F1 season curtain raiser win was overshadowed by the sext scandal, which snowballed further on Thursday when The Sun revealed Horner’s accuser had been suspended.Most read in MotorsportInsiders alleged yesterday 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.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.Sponsors crucial to the all-conquering Red Bull team’s continuing success were asked if they had concerns about the continuing scandal, it was revealed yesterday.All declined to comment except the team’s current engine sponsors Honda, who said: “We do not have full details on the matter at this point.“We look forward to full clarity as soon as possible.”It’s obviously been a very trying period. I’m married and have three childrenChristian HornerHorner yesterday admitted it had been a “trying” time for his family but heaped praise on Geri.He said: “My wife has been phenomenally supportive throughout this as have my family.”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.”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.”Pals said Horner — who was cleared in a Red Bull probe before the leak — was finding it impossible to avoid his accuser at work.Frustrations came to a head on Monday following a series of interventions by high-powered lawyers on behalf of the employee.It was tough for Geri in Bahrain but she was determined to show her marriage is still strongSourceHR bosses stepped in and suspended her on full pay — with some reports citing alleged “dishonesty” — pending the outcome of an internal inquiry.Insiders said the woman had demanded to continue working in regular contact with her embattled boss among 1,600 employees at the all-conquering F1 team’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks.At a press conference ahead of the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, he said: “Obviously there’s been an awful lot of coverage surrounding this.”But one has to go back to the basis that a grievance was raised, it was investigated, and it was dismissed. Obviously it’s been of great interest but I think it is time now to draw a line under it.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’m afraid I can’t comment on anything that is confidential between an employee and the company.“I am not going to air all the discussions that are private between the parties. Discussions have been had and the team is focused on the challenges ahead of us.” More

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      F1’s richest Wag stuns in all-black outfit and asks ‘leather or latex’ as fans hail ‘literal queen’

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      FORMULA ONE’S richest Wag asked fans to guess whether she was wearing “leather or latex” after stunning in an all-black outfit.“Literal queen” Kelly Piquet turned heads in Paris as she donned a skimpy outfit for a sultry photo shoot.Max Verstappen’s Wag Kelly Piquet has stunned in a black outfit onlineCredit: instagram/@kellypiquet/Max Verstappen’s partner, and also the daughter of Brazilian F1 legend Nelson, struck a pose as she gazed longingly down the lens.And the raven-haired beauty then turned around for a different angle before glancing back over her shoulder.Fans were certainly blown away by Kelly’s latest pictures as she asked them to guess whether she was wearing “leather or latex.”One said: “You are a literal queen.”READ MORE ON F1Another declared: “Max will need to finish his race quick for this one.”One noted: “So pretty! Omg I wanna be Max now.”Another boomed: “Fire both ways.”One added: “Max is so lucky ngl.”Most read in MotorsportKelly has been dating F1 champ and Red Bull star Verstappen since 2020.She was born in Germany and raised in France before studying in England, Brazil, and America.The richest Wags in F1 revealed with some earning thousands from InstagramAs well as being a model, she is also a columnist, blogger and PR professional.Kelly is currently in the French capital for Paris Fashion Week and put on a busty display earlier this week.But she also boasts another fine accolade.That’s because Kelly tops the rich list of F1 Wags, making an average of £2,786 per Instagram post.SEE MORE OF KELLY’S GLAMOROUS LIFE BELOWKelly lives her best lifeCredit: instagram/@kellypiquet/She has been dating Verstappen since 2020Credit: GettyKelly is the daughter of F1 legend NelsonCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kellypiquet/She is the richest F1 wagCredit: Instagram kellypiquetShe earns over £2,000 for every Instagram postCredit: Instagram @kellypiquetKelly is a model amongst other thingsCredit: instagram @kellypiquetShe has been supporting Verstappen for yearsCredit: Instagram @kellypiquetKelly is currently in ParisCredit: GettyShe is turning heads at Fashion WeekCredit: Getty More

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      How seething Christian Horner snapped after 12 questions about F1 ‘sext’ scandal – with ‘micro-signals’ showing fury

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      CHRISTIAN Horner showed “micro-signals” of fury as he was quizzed over his sexting scandal, a body language expert has revealed.Speaking at a press conference in Saudi Arabia, the cleared F1 chief hit back at claims surrounding the saga – insisting it’s time to “draw a line under it”.Christian Horner became increasingly ‘impatient’ during a press conference in Saudi, according to a body language expertCredit: GettyHorner gave a ‘cold stare’ during the team principals’ press conference in SaudiCredit: GettyHorner (right), pictured with the other team principals, repeatedly tapped his left foot in the airCredit: GettyThe Red Bull chief pictured on March 8 ahead of the Saudi Arabia Grand PrixCredit: RexHorner, 50, faced intense questioning from the media just hours after it emerged his accuser had been suspended from Red Bull Racing HQ.As he faced a barrage of questions about the scandal, he admitted it had been a “very trying period” – and said it was “time to move on”.According to body language guru Judi James, the Red Bull boss appeared “impatient or irritated” during the grilling as he fielded 12 questions about the controversy. Although he started the press conference with a “confident splay of bravado” and “an air of feigned nonchalance”, Judi claimed there was a “sense of exasperation” by the fifth question.Read more on HornerShe told The Sun: “Right from the start we can see Horner’s emphatic ‘tell’. With his legs crossed, his left foot starts a small tapping in the air. “This is a gesture that will usually suggest impatience or irritation.”It is a gesture that we can see growing throughout the conference.”As his turn for questions comes around, Judi notes “a hint of growing tension” his foot circles in the air and his blinking “appears staccato”.Most read in Motorsport”When the questions are invited from the press he places his hand to his nose, suggesting a small barrier ritual – as though he is bracing himself for the inevitable,” she said. “There is a sense of exasperation by the fifth question as the foot raises then just flops. “Asked about the grievance, his eye expression becomes more authoritative and his upper lip curls in a micro-sneer as he insists it’s ‘time to draw a line under it’.”There is a micro-signal of inner anger as Horner speaks about ‘attention in the media’ through clenched-looking teeth. “By now he ends his answer with a small tongue-poke which is usually a gesture of rejection or disgust.”When quizzed about world champion Max Verstappen’s dad and about his own reputation, Horner’s “eye expression” appears “colder”, Judi said. “He ends with a cold stare and his brows are raised in an expression of authority as he tells the press it is now ‘enough’,” the body language expert added.The grilling from the media in Saudi comes after the bombshell leak of hundreds of “sexually suggestive” messages by the 50-year-old team boss.Allegations of inappropriate behaviour against Horner were dismissed by a barrister-led probe.Ginger Spice Geri Halliwell, 51, has been left heartbroken by the scandal, which erupted when the raft of embarrassing messages were released online on the eve of the F1 season opener.The pop icon put on a toe-curling show of unity at last week’s Bahrain Grand Prix in which Red Bull pulled off a perfect 1-2 triumph led by world champ Max Verstappen.And she is now also expected to join Christian in Jeddah this weekend ahead of the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix on Saturday.Geri wanted her husband to cut all contact with his unidentified accuser – but he found it impossible to comply as they remained in regular contact at work.It comes after the staffer, who is understood to have shown up for work at the team’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks, was suspended on full pay.The ongoing saga dogging Red Bull has been complicated by behind-the-scenes clashes between star driver Verstappen’s father Jos, 51, and Horner.Insiders said Jos had become close to the woman – but he has strenuously denied being the text leaker while warning Horner’s team will “explode” if he is not ousted.Red Bull Racing said “The company cannot comment on this internal matter.”Horner, 50, was seen in the Saudi Arabia paddock today for practice ahead of the next race without Geri by his side.READ MORE SUN STORIESGeri was mid-air on her way to Bahrain after her husband was cleared when the texts were published widely online via an anonymous email drop.Halliwell and Horner have been married since 2015 and share a son.F1 champion Max Verstappen with boss Horner after winning the season-opener race last weekend More

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      F1 star Carlos Sainz to undergo emergency surgery as he is forced to withdraw from Saudi Arabian GP hours before race

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      CARLOS SAINZ will miss the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix to undergo emergency surgery.The 29-year-old has been diagnosed with appendicitis. Carlos Sainz will miss this weekend’s Saudi Arabian GPCredit: GettyTeenage sensation Oliver Bearman will make his F1 debutCredit: GettyHe is now reportedly in hospital, having fallen ill since touching down in Jeddah earlier this week.Sainz came third in the opening race of the season in Bahrain last weekend.But tomorrow’s Saudi GP will see Oliver Bearman replace him.The Brit reserve driver has been promoted after securing pole in F2 qualifying this week.READ MORE ON F1Bearman, 18, has been tipped as a future star after he was snapped up as part of Ferrari’s young driver scheme. His road to the top began as he won the F4 series in both Italy and Germany in 2021.After climbing up to F3, the teen sensation finished in third and was promoted to F2 last year with Prema Racing.The Chelmsford-born racer featured in Mexico City and Abu Dhabi practice sessions with Haas during the 2023 season.Most read in MotorsportHe impressed in Mexico where he became Britain’s youngest ever F1 driver, finishing ahead of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso in practice.His best lap time in Mexico City – in a Haas – was just 1.6 seconds slower than triple world champion Max Verstappen, and three tenths adrift of experienced teammate, Nico Hulkenberg.Bearman will be the 165th British F1 driver and the first to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari car since Eddie Irvine 25 years ago. His chance comes ahead of Lewis Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari in 2025 but Bearman says it was fellow Brit Jenson Button who was his boyhood hero.Sainz is being released by Ferrari at the end of the season to make way for Hamilton and is yet to find a seat for 2025.Who is Oliver Bearman?By Ben Hunt
      Raised in Chelmsford, and schooled at King Edward VI Grammar, Bearman 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.
      The teenager drove for the Haas last season in the practice sessions in Mexico City and Abu Dhabi.
      He impressed and became Britain’s youngest ever F1 driver, finishing ahead of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso in practice.
      His best lap time – in a Haas – was just 1.6 seconds slower than Max Verstappen.
      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.
      However, he will now ditch his F2 commitments for this weekend after being promoted to replace Sainz. More

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      Defiant Christian Horner hails ‘phenomenally supportive’ wife Geri as he breaks silence over Red Bull sexting scandal

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      F1 boss Christian Horner today broke his silence in an attempt to finally end his sexting scandal.The cleared Red Bull chief, 50, heaped praise on his supportive wife, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell.Christian Horner heaped praise on his wife Geri as he broke his silence over the sexting scandalCredit: GettyThe woman who accused Horner of sending sexually suggestive messages has been suspendedCredit: RexInsiders revealed concerns had been raised over alleged “inconsistencies” in the hundreds of embarrassing WhatsApp messages leaked last week. Horner admitted it had been a “trying” time. But he piled on the praise for Spice Girl Geri, 51, who put on an awkward display of unity with her husband at last ­weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix.He said: “My wife has been ­phenomenally supportive throughout this as have my family.READ MORE ON CHRISTIAN HORNER“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.“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.”Pals said Horner — who was cleared in a Red Bull probe before the leak — was finding it impossible to avoid his accuser at work.Most read in MotorsportFrustrations came to a head on Monday following a series of ­interventions by high-powered ­lawyers on behalf of the employee.HR bosses stepped in and ­suspended her on full pay — with some reports citing alleged “dishonesty” — pending the outcome of an internal inquiry.F1’s Christian Horner says ‘time to draw a line’ on claims of inappropriate behaviour Insiders said the woman had demanded to continue working in regular contact with her embattled boss among 1,600 employees at the all-conquering F1 team’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks.Ex-racing driver Horner fielded a dozen questions about the scandal, and said he was keen to “draw a line” under it.At a press conference ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, he said: “Obviously there’s been an awful lot of coverage surrounding this. But one has to go back to the basis that a grievance was raised, it was investigated, and it was ­dismissed. Obviously it’s been of great interest but I think it is time now to draw a line under it.“I’m afraid I can’t comment on anything that is confidential between an employee and the company. I am not going to air all the discussions that are private between the ­parties. Discussions have been had and the team is focused on the challenges ahead of us.”F1 champion Max Verstappen with boss Horner after winning the season-opener race last weekendCredit: EPASun Online exclusively revealed that Horner’s aide had been suspended.A source said: “It became obvious that the situation could not ­continue and it was decided to ­suspend her on full pay while internal inquiries continue.“Anyone reading the messages could see that they were full of holes and did not present the full picture of what had been going on.“There were concerns about her reliability regarding both her conduct during the inquiry and since she returned to work in contact with Christian.”UNITED FRONTGeri landed in Bahrain last week just after the messages were leaked — and the couple were pictured in an ­awkward clinch at the track.Red Bull’s world champ driver Max Verstappen stormed to victory in the season opener but the team remained embroiled in the controversy surrounding Horner.Geri pleaded with her husband to cut all contact with his accuser – but he found it impossible to ­comply as they remained in regular contact at work.Horner was said to have been frustrated at having to “keep up appearances” at Red Bull’s HQ, where every employee knows the identity of his accuser.The aide – who had her own monogrammed Red Bull pit suit – was said to have instructed lawyers “at every turn” to resist efforts to reduce her role.My wife has been ­phenomenally supportive throughout this as have my familyChristian HornerShe had even demanded to fly with Horner to Bahrain to support the Red Bull team in her working role until her lawyers advised her against it.The Sun’s source added: “Christian wants nothing to do with this woman after she detonated a bomb under his marriage and his career.“But every time he has tried to extricate himself from her, he’s received a warning letter from her lawyers. Whenever she thinks she’s being sidelined, her lawyers step in immediately. It’s frustrating for both Christian and Geri and makes his working life extremely awkward.“The big buzz around F1 at the moment is about how on earth she can afford to pay top lawyers on her comparatively modest salary.”BEHIND-THE-SCENES CLASHESThe saga has also been complicated by behind-the-scenes clashes between Horner and star driver Verstappen’s father Jos.Insiders said Verstappen Snr had become close to the female employee. He has denied being the text leaker while warning Red Bull will “explode” if Horner stays.On Wednesday, Max sided with his father, insisting: “My dad is always very outspoken. He’s not a liar, that’s for sure.”Horner was seen chatting to Verstappen Jnr yesterday at practice in Jeddah for the weekend’s race.He played down what appeared to be a public spat last weekend with Verstappen Snr, which was captured on video.Geri and Christian put on an awkward display of unity with her husband at last ­weekend’s Bahrain Grand PrixCredit: PAThe £8-million-a-year Red Bull team principal said: “Obviously I’m aware of the comments that were made. There was a discussion subsequent to the race in Bahrain.“I spoke to Jos following the grand prix and obviously congratulated him on his son’s performance.“I think it’s in everyone’s interest that we’ve agreed to focus on the future. We have a vested interest together to do the best for his son.”Last week Jos said of Horner: “He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “The situation is not good for the team and is driving people apart.”On Monday, Horner was reportedly not invited to Jos’ 52nd birthday party in Dubai, despite other Red Bull bosses being among the guests.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”.
      MARCH 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.”
      MARCH 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.”
      MARCH 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
      MARCH 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee. More

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      Defiant Christian Horner hits back over sext scandal & insists ‘it’s time to draw line under it’ after accuser suspended

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      A DEFIANT Christian Horner hit back at claims surrounding his bombshell sexting scandal – insisting it’s time to “draw a line under it.”Speaking at a press conference in Saudi Arabia, the F1 chief said it’s time to “focus on what is going on on track.”Horner said it’s now time to focus on what’s happening on the trackCredit: GettyHorner has hit back after the Red Bull employee was suspendedCredit: APGeri wanted her husband to cut all ties with his accuserCredit: GettyHe said: “Obviously there has been a lot of coverage surrounding this, but one has to go back to the basis of a grievance was raised, it was fully investigated, and it was dismissed. “From there we move onwards. “The Red Bull boss added: “I think the time now is to look forward and draw a line under it.”We are here to go racing, we are here as a Formula 1 team, and the time now is to focus on what is going on on track and the performance of the cars and the drivers, where the spotlight should be during the course of a Grand Prix weekend.”READ MORE ON HORNERHorner’s statement comes right after it emerged his accuser has been suspended from Red Bull Racing HQ.It comes following the bombshell leak of hundreds of “sexually suggestive” messages by the 50-year-old team boss.Allegations of inappropriate behaviour against Horner were dismissed by a barrister-led probe.A source told The Sun today: “It became obvious that the situation could not continue and it was decided to suspend her on full pay while internal inquiries continue.”Most read in MotorsportWhen asked about the suspension of the staffer, Horner replied: “I’m afraid I can’t comment on anything confidential between an employee and a company so I can’t comment on that.”Horner went on saying the row had been “very hard” on his family , adding: “It is time now to focus on why we are here which is to go Formula One racing.”Ginger Spice Geri Halliwell, 51, has been left heartbroken by the scandal, which erupted when a raft of embarrassing messages were released online on the eve of the F1 season opener.The pop icon put on a toe-curling show of unity at last week’s Bahrain Grand Prix in which Red Bull pulled off a perfect 1-2 triumph led by world champ Max Verstappen.Geri wanted her husband to cut all contact with his unidentified accuser – but he found it impossible to comply as they remained in regular contact at work.While Geri will be pleased with the outcome, there’s no suggestion her demand that she be taken “out of the picture” is what led to the suspension. She is now reportedly expected to join Christian in Jeddah this weekend ahead of the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix on Saturday.It comes after the staffer, who is understood to have shown up for work at the team’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks, was suspended on full pay.Insiders said she had demanded to continue working at Red Bull – while Geri wanted her husband to cut all contact with the employee.And she has instructed lawyers “at every turn” as Horner attempted to detach himself from her professionally and personally, The Sun was told today.The source added: “Whenever she thought she was being sidelined her lawyers stepped in immediately.“Something had to give and now she’s been suspended.”How Christian Horner’s shock texts were leakedBy Ben Hunt
      IT was an anonymous email sent and designed for maximum impact.
      It landed in my inbox almost 24 hours to the minute since Christian Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing following Red Bull’s internal investigation.
      Other names included Liberty Media chief Greg Maffei, who owns the rights to F1. The FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 CEO Stefano Dominacali.
      The F1 team bosses were also included for good measure. As was Max Verstappen’s father, Jos.
      It was from an anonymous sender, the title was simply the date – ‘Feb Twenty Nine’.
      Inside it was a Google Drive link containing 79 files claiming to be the evidence from the independent investigation.
      There is no way of knowing if they were real or fake yet irrespectively it sent another shockwave through the F1 paddock before this season had even started.
      Horner was sitting on the team’s pitwall during second practice in Bahrain when the email dropped.
      After the session, he walked out of the team’s garage and into the hospitality unit where he remained as the nuclear fallout began.
      He’d survived the outcome of the internal investigation into improper conduct following a complaint from a female colleague.
      One wonders whether he will survive this time after this very public humiliation – again, irrespective if they were indeed real or fake.
      Just hours earlier, McLaren’s CEO Zak Brown and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, called on the sport’s governing body, the FIA, demanding transparency.
      “I just read the statement, which was pretty basic,” said Wolff. “My personal opinion is we can’t really look behind the curtain.
      “There is a lady in an organisation that has spoken to HR and said there was an issue and it was investigated and yesterday the sport has received the message that it’s all fine, we’ve looked at it.
      “I believe with the aspiration as a global sport, on such critical topics, it needs more transparency and I wonder what the sport’s position is?
      “We’re competitors, we’re a team and we can have our own personal opinions or not. But it’s more like a general reaction or action that we as a sport need to assess, what is right in that situation and what is wrong.
      “Are we talking with the right moral approach, with the values based on the speculation that is out there? As a sport, we cannot afford to leave things vague and opaque on critical topics like this, because this is going to catch us out.”
      Brown added: “It’s the responsibility ultimately of the organisers of Formula One, the owners of Formula One, to make sure that all the racing teams and the personnel and the drivers and everyone else involved in the sport are operating in a manner in which we all live by.
      “I don’t think it’s the teams’ roles and responsibilities. That’s up to FIA and Formula One to ultimately decide and ask what they feel gives them the level of transparency they need to ultimately come to their conclusion and we just have to count on them that they fulfil that obligation to all of us.”
      The emailed file will only increase that pressure in the form of scrutiny on Horner – who has always denied the accusations.
      It does also put Red Bull in a tricky position.
      Should the emailed file be legitimate and have made up elements from the initial report, which had been thoroughly examined and presented by the independent KC, then surely this is nothing new to them and their decision to stick with their team principal remains.
      To perform a u-turn on that simply now they have become public would possibly see criticism that they intended to keep their report private to save face.
      Whatever the outcome, it is a mess for the world champions.Reports of a wedge driven between Horner and Verstappen’s father have grown in recent weeks.
      So it was interesting that Jos Verstappen was in the paddock and wearing a team jacket and seemed unmoved to the chaos happening around him

      The ongoing saga dogging Red Bull has been complicated by behind-the-scenes clashes between star driver Verstappen’s father Jos, 51, and Horner.Insiders said Jos had become close to the woman – but he has strenuously denied being the text leaker while warning Horner’s team will “explode” if he is not ousted.Red Bull Racing said today: “The company cannot comment on this internal matter.”Horner, 50, was seen in the Saudi Arabia paddock today for practice ahead of the next race without Geri by his side.Geri was mid-air on her way to Bahrain after her husband was cleared when the texts were published widely online via an anonymous email drop.She was apparently “relieved and elated” after the complaint was initially thrown out, but later left “stunned” by the leaked messages.Halliwell and Horner have been married since 2015 and share a son.Tensions inside the Red Bull team are mounting after Jos warned the camp could “explode” if Horner stays in his £8million-a-year role.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe two men were seen locked in what looked like a fiery argument during the F1 season opener — in which Red Bull stormed to first and second places thanks to Max and team-mate Sergio Perez.Sky Sports footage showed Horner and Jos apparently arguing, following reports they have previously clashed in a rift that has lasted for months.F1 champion Max Verstappen with boss Horner after winning the season-opener race last weekendGeri flew to Bahrain last weekend and put on a very public show of support with husband HornerThe pair have been married since 2015 and share a sonTensions are rising in the Red Bull camp as Jos Verstappen has been outspoken following Horner’s sexting scandal More