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      ‘It’s going to be awkward’, predicts Max Verstappen as F1 star says Lewis Hamilton may be BANNED from Mercedes meetings

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      MAX VERSTAPPEN has predicted Mercedes will ban Lewis Hamilton from “certain meetings” in the upcoming season.Hamilton has announced he will be leaving the Silver Arrows to join Ferrari in 2025.
      Max Verstappen has said Lewis Hamilton will be left out of ‘certain meetings’ with MercedesCredit: Getty
      Hamilton has announced he will leave the Silver Arrows to join Ferarri in 2025Credit: Rex
      While the announcement came as a shock to the Formula One world both Hamilton and Toto Wolff insist it is business as usual this year.
      The pair are focused on helping the team close the gap to Red Bull with both Hamilton and George Russell leading the fight.
      But according to Verstappen things may be a little bit “awkward” at the German garage now that everyone knows Hamilton is off he will be left out at certain things.
      He said: “For the rest of the year, I would say it’s a little bit awkward.
      READ MORE ON F1
      “It’s not like they are suddenly enemies. He has achieved so many great things with them.
      “They are still behind him, and for sure he has a great relationship with everyone, especially Toto.
      “But he knows at one point, and Toto for sure will tell him: ‘Look, I know we’ve had all this success, but you can’t be part of certain meetings any more’.
      “That is normal in F1. It’s probably a bit weird.
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      “But you are professional enough to deal with that. And once he’s sitting in the car, they will of course go flat out for him.”
      Usually, a driver does not announce a deal 12 months before their actual switch as teams want to keep talks out of the public eye.
      Did Charles Leclerc drop secret hint about Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari from Mercedes in awkward interview LAST YEAR?
      The time when more details are revealed about moves is during the F1 “silly season” in the summer break.
      But Verstappen believed the only reason the British driver announced the deal so early was to stop the news from being “leaked”.
      He continued: “It must have been leaked to announce something that big that early in the season.
      “Him going to Ferrari is not really shocking. It’s not a surprise they were talking.
      “I just think the announcement was a bit rushed.” More

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      F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2024: Start time, stream, TV channel, race schedule as Hamilton eyes fast start in season opener

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      F1 racers are gearing up for the opening 2024 Bahrain Grand Prix – and Lewis Hamilton has one final shot at becoming champion once again behind the Mercedes wheel.The British legend shocked the world when it was revealed that he’ll be making the switch to Ferrari in 2025.
      This will be Lewis Hamilton’s final season driving for MercedesCredit: AFP
      And over two years on from winning his last race, Hamilton will be determined to get off to the perfect start in Bahrain.
      However, 2023 champion Max Verstappen is certainly looking to ruin the party by continuing his incredible hot streak.
      Furthermore, the Red Bull racer has a goal of his own – to become only the fourth driver to win FOUR championships in a row.
      When is the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2024?

      The F1 Bahrain Grand Prix is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 2.
      It is expected to get underway from 3pm UK time – 6pm local time.
      Bahrain International Circuit is the allocated track for this opening race and it can host approximately 70,000 fans.
      Max Verstappen got off to a winning start at this exact circuit in 2023.

      Read more on Lewis Hamilton
      What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

      The Bahrain Grand Prix will be broadcast LIVE on Sky Sports F1.
      Subscription members of Sky Sports can stream the entire action on the Sky Go app or Sky Sports website.
      The race will also be available to NOW TV users via all mobile devices and tablets.
      Alternatively, SunSport will have lap-by-lap coverage of the whole race including podium reaction.

      FULL race schedule
      Friday, February 29

      Practice One – 11:30am
      Practice Two – 3pm

      Saturday, March 1
      Most read in Motorsport

      Practice Three – 12:30pm
      Qualifying – 4pm

      Sunday, March 2

      Grand Prix – 3pm

      All times are in the GMT

      🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      F1 star Charles Leclerc launches left-field side hustle ahead of linking up with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari

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      FERRARI driver Charles Leclerc has shown off his musical talent playing piano by releasing four new tracks.The Formula One star is set to become teammates with Lewis Hamilton in 2025 – who recently announced he was leaving Mercedes.
      Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has released an album showing his talent for playing pianoCredit: Reuters
      Leclerc has produced four new tracks with French pianist Sofiane PamartCredit: Instagram @charles_leclerc
      Leclerc is set to become teammates with Lewis Hamilton in 2025Credit: AP
      Leclerc has shared his artistic work over the winter break with long-term pal French pianist Sofiane Pamart.
      The 26-year-old has taken his love of music and released an Extended Play consisting of four songs onto Spotify with Pamart.
      The pair have called the EP ‘Dreamers’ featuring tracks called, ‘Focus’, ‘Heartbeat’, ‘Limitless’ and ‘The Dream Continues’.
      In a post on his Instgram story, Leclerc announced the exciting news giving fans just a 12-hour warning to prepare for the Monegasque sweet, mellow tunes.
      READ MORE IN F1
      Leclerc said: “I have enjoyed every second of this moment.
      “During the off-season I got in a studio for two days together with Sofiane and we worked on four songs that will be released tonight at midnight.
      “I’m soooo proud of the result. We’ll also be releasing vinyls that you can pre-order on the link below, for a limited time only.
      “We’ll also release the piano scores of the songs. I hope you will love all of it.”
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      In the past, the F1 ace has shared his piano-playing talent through popular tracks including ‘MON23’, ‘MIA23’ AND ‘AUS23’.
      But the special feature is sure to envy his soon-to-be team-mate Lewis Hamilton who has also expressed his love for music.
      ‘World’s first supercar’ Mercedes to become most expensive antique motor EVER
      The seven-time world champion has even contemplated following his passion after he retires from the tracks after featuring in Christina Aguilera’s music video in 2018.
      The Mercedes driver is set to leave the Silver Arrows at the end of the upcoming season to join Ferrari due to the expiration of his contract.
      Leclerc shared he worked on the new music over the winter breakCredit: Instagram @charles_leclerc More

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      Christian Horner looked like a man who’d not slept a wink in 12 days… but Red Bull chief didn’t shy away from grilling

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      CHRISTIAN HORNER faced the music for the first time since the bombshell dropped 12 days ago.And he looked like a man who had not slept a wink of sleep since.
      Christian Horner made his first public appearances since Red Bull launched an internal investigation into his conduct
      Horner was speaking at Red Bull’s 2024 car launchCredit: Oracle Red Bull Racing
      Red Bull will be hoping their car can land a third constructors title in a rowCredit: Reuters
      Horner has been in charge of Red Bull since 2005Credit: AP
      Dressed in his usual attire of jeans, white shirt covered by a jumper and dark jacket but unusually he wore glasses.
      He sat on a plastic chair surrounded by journalists who were under the instruction not to press the 50-year-old about the internal investigation he has been subjected to.
      But this is Horner’s team – the one he has helped build since he first walked through the door here in Milton Keynes in 2005. He would not be pigeonholed.
      To his sizeable credit, he did not baulk at the carefully-worded questions designed to elicit as much information as possible without straying into the red.
      READ MORE IN F1
      He answered everything he was faced with, repeating four times that he denied all the allegations made against him by a female colleague.
      He spoke softly and calmly and he even made a joke at the end of the media session where he asked what we thought about the new car – there had not been a single question about it.
      The matter is out of his hands and being taken care of at the energy drink’s HQ in Austria after they chose to start their own private investigation.
      The message from Horner is clear – that he has nothing to hide, this is his team and they were launching their challenger for 2024 in their Milton Keynes HQ looking to defend their titles.
      Most read in Motorsport
      It would have been easy for him to cancel. Sickness, or legal advice, or blown tyre on the motorway – whatever the excuse.
      Or indeed for his Red Bull racing team to do a ‘digital only car launch’ as rivals Mercedes had done the day before – stopping themselves from an inquest into Lewis Hamilton’s sudden decision to defect to Ferrari in 2025.
      Christian Horner SPOTTED at top secret Red Bull test run as he awaits decision in ‘inappropriate behaviour’ probe
      No, Horner and his Red Bull team were committed to this launch and he was determined to be there.
      As he does the preseason testing in Bahrain – and the season opener at the same track on March 2nd.
      He said: “Look, I think moments of uncertainty brings us together and I’ve never seen a team more together and supporting than it is.
      “Everybody’s focused on one thing, which is the performance of that car to go out and defend both the world titles that we’ve worked so hard to achieve over the last couple of years.
      “So the car is what everybody is invested in and I look forward to seeing it in action in Bahrain next week.”
      When asked if he expected to be in his position for that first race, he added: “I am confident in the process and working with the process and absolutely deny any of the allegation that has been made.”
      Drive to survive
      Horner has achieved so much success, winning 13 world titles – six constructors and seven drivers’ championships – in 19 years.
      He has done so by being diligent. A taskmaster who expects the same commitment from his staff.
      However, perhaps pointedly so, he chose to highlight how he has managed the 1,500 staff that work across their sprawling campus.
      He said: “It’s a big team. It’s one of the biggest sporting teams in the world and it has always been one of our strengths – the way we work.
      “We’ve had tremendous stability. We’ve had a very low turnover of staff.
      “We’ve had huge continuity over the years. People work here because they love working here.
      “They enjoy working here and they share a passion and they share in that passion for going racing and racing against some such fierce competitors.”
      Christian Horner’s life and careerCHRISTIAN Horner is among the most well-known names in Formula One having helped build Red Bull into one of the biggest teams in the sport.
      1973 – Born in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
      1991 – Wins a Formula Renault scholarship after impressing in karting races
      1993-1997 – Competed in a host of competitions including British Formula Three, British Formula Two, and Formula 3000
      1997 – Founded and developed the F3000 team Arden
      1999 – Retired from driving and continued developing the Arden team
      2005 – Appointed head of Red Bull team, becoming the youngest ever team principal at that time
      2009 – Wins his first races as team principal with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber
      2010 – Wins the Constructors’ Championship and Drivers’ Championship with Vettel – the first of four doubles in a row
      2013 – Has a daughter with ex-wife Beverly Allen shortly before the couple split
      2014 – Gets engaged to Spice Girls member Geri Halliwell
      2015 – Marries Halliwell in Woburn, Bedfordshire
      2017 – Horner and Halliwell welcome their son
      2021 – Wins another Drivers’ Championship with Max Verstappen, pipping Lewis Hamilton on the final lap of the season
      2022-23 – Red Bull win the Drivers’ Championship and Constructors’ Championship two years in a row

      An hour before our interview, Horner was on stage presenting the RB20 in front of media, partners and influencers.
      Sitting by the side of the stage were Red Bull’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko and Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff.
      The latter has even been mooted as a possible replacement for the Brit, should he not remain in his position.
      Horner was asked whether he felt he still had the support of senior figures from Red Bull and “The support from the shareholders I’ve had, it’s been fantastic,” he said without naming names.
      “I think the support for shareholders following the death of Dietrich Mateschitz, you can see the commitment that there is in Formula One – Red Bull Powertrains to Red Bull Advanced Technologies.
      “We’re one we’re one team and that support has been very clear.”There was perhaps one ill-judged moment given an accusation of “improper conduct”.
      Superman cape
      During the on-stage presentation, former F1 star David Coulthard reminded Horner about jumping into a swimming pool with only a superman cape to protect his modesty.
      It was of course a reflection on the team’s first podium that Coulthard had taken in Monaco in 2006 with Horner losing a sportsman’s bet that he didn’t think the Scot would achieve such a triumph.
      High jinks in 2005, perhaps that is no longer in keeping with F1, or indeed society, in 2024.
      For the meantime, Horner remains in place and has the support of his drivers.
      World champion Max Verstappen says he is not worried about the team being distracted.
      “No,” he said, “I feel that everyone is very focused and very motivated. It was nice the day before we had the filming day, when the car comes together.
      “To see so many people fully focused on their little baby. Everyone is very excited to get to Bahrain.
      “The [spirit in the team] is fantastic. It’s honestly better than ever.
      “Everyone is really enjoying their role, everyone is very proud of what they have achieved, and everyone is very much looking forward to the new season.
      “[My relationship with Christian is] very good. We’ve seen each other quite a few times. I’ve been on the simulator.

      “He was also there when we were filming. We’ve achieved a lot of things together so that doesn’t change suddenly.”
      Sergio Perez added: “The whole team is fully focused on this new year, we know that we’ve got a massive challenge ahead of us and that’s the main objective for all of us.”
      Horner is married to Spice Girl GeriCredit: Getty

      🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      Christian Horner says ‘I built this team’ & praises wife Geri Halliwell’s ‘support’ as he DENIES ‘behaviour’ claims

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      CHRISTIAN Horner has praised his wife for her support as he again denied accusations of “inappropriate behaviour” brought against him.The Red Bull Racing boss made his first public appearance today since the energy drink giant launched an internal investigation against him 12 days ago.
      Christian Horner has repeatedly denied accusations of ‘inappropriate behaviour’Credit: Oracle Red Bull Racing
      The Red Bull Racing boss was quizzed by an independent expert last weekCredit: AFP
      Horner praised his wife for her support during the probeCredit: Getty
      He said he is ‘absolutely committed’ to Redbull RacingCredit: Oracle Red Bull Racing
      Horner, 50, was speaking as the team launched their F1 car for the new season from their Milton Keynes HQ where he said FOUR times that he denied the allegations and was complying with Red Bull’s investigation.
      The boss, who is married to former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, was quizzed by an independent legal expert last Friday as part of the process following a complaint raised by a female colleague.
      In one interview with Dutch journalists, Horner praised Geri: “I have a very supportive family and a very supportive wife.
      “My focus has been on the job and the season ahead. I’m not going to talk about private matters, but my family have been hugely supportive.”
      READ MORE ON HORNER
      In an interview this evening, Horner said it was business as usual pending the outcome of the report and said he plans to be in Bahrain next week for preseason F1 testing.
      He said: “I’m absolutely committed to this team. I’ve been here since the beginning. I’ve built this team. There’s been highs and lows along the way.
      “We have won 113 races. Won seven drivers’ world championships. We’ve won six constructors’ world championships in 19 seasons, and you know, that’s in the history books.
      “But it’s what lies ahead, because that’s what’s important. So my focus is on the future.”
      Most read in Motorsport
      It came as he made his first public appearance since the accusations dropped, and smiled as he appeared alongside former Red Bull driver David Coulthard.
      As the pair reflected on the retired racing driver’s time with the team, Horner said: “It’s a very inclusive culture, it’s a team culture.”
      Christian Horner SPOTTED at top secret Red Bull test run as he awaits decision in ‘inappropriate behaviour’ probe
      He said: “It’s everything. The men and women here at Milton Keynes, all the people behind the scenes.
      “It’s out of these industrial buildings that we’ve created these incredible cars.
      “For me, Formula 1 is a team sport, and it’s the people that are the single biggest assets.”
      There had been speculation that Horner had been caught up in a powerplay at the heart of the reigning F1 world champions.
      The F1 team is based in Milton Keynes while Red Bull’s HQ is in Austria, the home of the drink’s founder Dietrich Mateschitz, who passed away in 2022.
      But Horner appears to have played down reports of a rift between the two divisions by insisting he has been given support in his current situation.
      ANALYSIS: Horner stands defiant By Ben Hunt, Motorsport Correspondent
      CHRISTIAN HORNER faced the music for the first time since the bombshell dropped 12 days ago.
      And he looked like a man who had not slept a wink of sleep since.
      Dressed in his usual attire of jeans, white shirt covered by a jumper and dark jacket but unusually he wore glasses.
      He sat on a plastic chair surrounded by journalists who were under the instruction not to press the 50-year-old about the internal investigation he has been subjected to.
      But this is Horner’s team – the one he has helped build since he first walked through the door here in Milton Keynes in 2005.
      He would not be pigeonholed. To his sizable credit, he did not bulk at the carefully worded questions designed to elicit as much information as possible without straying into the red.
      He answered everything he was faced with, repeating four times that he denied all the allegations made against him by a female colleague.
      He spoke softly and calmly and he even made a joke at the end of the media session where he asked what we thought about the new car – there had not been a single question about it.
      The matter is out of his hands and being taken care of at the energy drink’s HQ in Austria after they chose to start their own private investigation.
      The message from Horner is clear – that he has nothing to hide, this is his team and they were launching their challenger for 2024 in their Milton Keynes HQ looking to defend their titles.

      He added: “I feel the support within the business, within our partners, within the industry – it is overwhelming.
      “There’s a process that’s ongoing at the moment. Some allegations have been made, which I fully deny and I have fully complied with that process and will continue to do so.
      “I think it’s been very clear. In the position of Red Bull, it has been business as normal.
      “The allegation is a process that Red Bull are running through and they confirmed that process externally.
      “But there’s a job to do – I denied fully the accusations and my role obviously continues.”

      Horner was asked how he has been able to concentrate on his work with the accusations swirling around and coping being thrust into the spotlight.
      He added: “I will continue to do so until the conclusion of the process, the internal process – I can’t tell you what that process consists of.”
      Horner was last seen in a test with the team this week
      He described Geri as a “very supportive wife”Credit: Getty
      A look at Christian Horner’s life and careerCHRISTIAN Horner is among the most well-known names in Formula One having helped build Red Bull into one of the biggest teams in the sport.
      1973 – Born in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
      1991 – Wins a Formula Renault scholarship after impressing in karting races
      1993-1997 – Competed in a host of competitions including British Formula Three, British Formula Two, and Formula 3000
      1997 – Founded and developed the F3000 team Arden
      1999 – Retired from driving and continued developing the Arden team
      2005 – Appointed head of Red Bull team, becoming the youngest ever team principal at that time
      2009 – Wins his first races as team principal with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber
      2010 – Wins the Constructors’ Championship and Drivers’ Championship with Vettel – the first of four doubles in a row
      2013 – Has a daughter with ex-wife Beverly Allen shortly before the couple split
      2014 – Gets engaged to Spice Girls member Geri Halliwell
      2015 – Marries Halliwell in Woburn, Bedfordshire
      2017 – Horner and Halliwell welcome their son
      2021 – Wins another Drivers’ Championship with Max Verstappen, beating Lewis Hamilton on the final lap of the season
      2022-23 – Red Bull win the Drivers’ Championship and Constructors’ Championship two years in a row More

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      Christian Horner praises Red Bull’s ‘very inclusive team culture’ in first public appearance since ‘behaviour’ probe

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      CHRISTIAN Horner has made his first public appearance since bombshell claims of “inappropriate behaviour” were made against him.The successful Formula One team chief was facing the cameras at Red Bull Racing’s season launch event today.
      Christian Horner has made his first public appearance since bombshell claims of ‘inappropriate behaviour’ were made against himCredit: Red Bull
      He smiled as he appeared alongside former Red Bull driver David CoulthardCredit: Red Bull
      Horner was last seen at a secret test run this week for the new Red Bull car laughing and smiling
      Christian’s wife Geri has backed her husband since the bombshell claims came outCredit: PA
      The 50-year-old turned up to the launch event at the team’s Milton Keynes HQ as planned.
      He smiled as he initially appeared alongside former Red Bull driver David Coulthard.
      As the pair reflected on the retired racing driver’s time with the team, Horner said: “It’s a very inclusive culture, it’s a team culture.”
      He continued: “It’s everything. The men and women here at Milton Keynes, all the people behind the scenes.
      Read more on Horner
      “It’s out of these industrial buildings that we’ve created these incredible cars.
      “For me, Formula 1 is a team sport, and it’s the people that are the single biggest assets.”
      Chief technology officer Adrian Newey then joined the duo and Horner described “keeping the team together” during Mercedes’ period of dominance.
      Current world champion Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez arrived as the team unveiled their incredible car for the F1 season ahead.
      Most read in Motorsport
      The Dutchman, 26, said: “I guess time will tell. I’m excited. It’s always very nice to see a new car come to life, all the people around it.
      “For me, it’s about looking forward to Bahrain, to get testing, get comfortable.
      Christian Horner breaks silence on ‘inappropriate behaviour’ allegation at Red Bull F1 launch
      “It’s going to be a long season, and we just want to hit the ground running.”
      Horner then told Sky News: “I feel the support within the business, within our partners, within the industry – it is overwhelming.
      “There’s a process that’s ongoing at the moment. Some allegations have been made, which I fully deny and I have fully complied with that process and will continue to do so.
      “I think it’s been very clear. In the position of Red Bull, it has been business as normal.
      “The allegation is a process that Red Bull are running through and they confirmed that process externally.
      For me, Formula 1 is a team sport, and it’s the people that are the single biggest assets.Christian HornerPrincipal of the Red Bull Racing
      “But there’s a job to do – I denied fully the accusations and my role obviously continues.”
      Horner was asked how he has been able to concentrate on his work with the accusations swirling around and coping being thrust into the spotlight.
      He added: “I will continue to do so until the conclusion of the process, the internal process – I can’t tell you what that process consists of.”
      In a separate interview to Dutch journalists, Horner added: “I have a very supportive family and a very supportive wife.
      “My focus has been on the job and the season ahead. I’m not going to talk about private matters, but my family have been hugely supportive.”
      The Red Bull launch was the final of this year’s ten F1 teams with all 20 cars being seen out on track ahead of the blockbuster season opener in Bahrain on March 2.
      Horner is expected to stick to his work commitments over the coming weeks as the team gears up for the start of the F1 season.
      This will include media obligations including interviews where he is thought to face questions over his position and his team’s preparation for the season despite the huge distraction.
      However, questions about the probe into Horner will likely be declined until the official investigation report is presented to Red Bull at their base in Austria.
      Horner faced an eight-hour grilling last Friday with Red Bull bosses over the accusations but the results of the crunch talks have not been made public yet.
      It is believed Horner’s future at Red Bull hangs in the balance despite the new F1 season starting in just weeks.
      Horner – who is married to Spice Girl Geri Halliwell – has reportedly referred to the allegations as “nuts” and said publicly: “I completely deny these claims.”
      It comes after Horner joined the Red Bull team at Silverstone for a secret test run of the new RB20 car on Tuesday.
      F1 teams are allowed two filming days to capture content of their cars on track – and it also offers the potential to run the car for the first time.
      Horner was surrounded by his fellow Red Bull team in the video smiling and laughing as they all stood outside of the garage in the pouring rain.
      As he spoke alongside the retired racing driver, Horner said: ‘It’s a very inclusive culture, it’s a team culture’Credit: Red Bull
      Horner described ‘keeping the team together’ during Mercedes’ period of dominanceCredit: Red Bull
      Current world champion Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez arrivedCredit: Getty
      The team unveiled their incredible car for the F1 season aheadCredit: Reuters
      WHAT HAS BEEN CLAIMED?
      F1 was rocked earlier this month by the sudden news that the sport’s longest-standing team principal had been placed under investigation by Red Bull’s Austria-based parent company.
      It has allegedly compiled a “dossier of incriminating material” regarding “inappropriate and controlling behaviour” towards one female, The Telegraph reported.
      The Red Bull Racing boss, who has led the Austrian team since its formation in 2005, was quizzed by an independent barrister in a private location late into the afternoon last Friday.
      The F1 chief was questioned for eight hours over his alleged “controlling behaviour”.
      Horner forced a smile as he was picked up in a chauffeur-driven car from his North London home ahead of the critical hearing.
      But an F1 source told The Sun last week that “Christian has not been sacked or asked to resign and he is not going to resign”.
      They also revealed the investigation is nowhere near its end – with it potentially dragging into the new F1 season.
      The insider said: “This is not a trial and we are not going to have an answer and an outcome by the end of the day.

      It comes as…

      “This is not something that is going to be rectified that quickly.
      “People are expecting this to be over before the start of the F1 season, but that just isn’t going to happen.”
      The investigation raises the question of who could take over the helm of the all-conquering racing team of world champion Max Verstappen.
      His wife Geri Halliwell is also said to be “terrified her life will unravel” amid Horner’s “inappropriate behaviour” probe.
      The ex-Spice Girl, who was “in floods of tears” when the Red Bull boss was hit with the bombshell allegations, fears the drama will drag on for years, a source has claimed. 
      But Geri, 51, is understood to be standing by her husband.
      She has told pals: “Christian has done nothing wrong.”
      Horner has overseen a huge period of success for the racing team – winning multiple F1 championships with Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen.
      Red Bull has won seven Formula One world drivers’ championships and six world ­constructors’ titles under Horner’s leadership.

      Last season, the team won 21 of the 22 races on the global F1 tour, and Verstappen, 26, won the drivers’ crown.
      Horner was awarded a CBE for services to motorsport in the 2024 New Year’s Honours List.
      A look at Christian Horner’s life and careerCHRISTIAN Horner is among the most well-known names in Formula One having helped build Red Bull into one of the biggest teams in the sport.
      1973 – Born in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
      1991 – Wins a Formula Renault scholarship after impressing in karting races
      1993-1997 – Competed in a host of competitions including British Formula Three, British Formula Two, and Formula 3000
      1997 – Founded and developed the F3000 team Arden
      1999 – Retired from driving and continued developing the Arden team
      2005 – Appointed head of Red Bull team, becoming the youngest ever team principal at that time
      2009 – Wins his first races as team principal with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber
      2010 – Wins the Constructors’ Championship and Drivers’ Championship with Vettel – the first of four doubles in a row
      2013 – Has a daughter with ex-wife Beverly Allen shortly before the couple split
      2014 – Gets engaged to Spice Girls member Geri Halliwell
      2015 – Marries Halliwell in Woburn, Bedfordshire
      2017 – Horner and Halliwell welcome their son
      2021 – Wins another Drivers’ Championship with Max Verstappen, beating Lewis Hamilton on the final lap of the season
      2022-23 – Red Bull win the Drivers’ Championship and Constructors’ Championship two years in a row

      Geri Halliwell fears the allegations will take a toll on her marriage
      The couple are due to celebrate their 10th anniversary next year
      Horner was pictured going to a meeting in London with Red Bull bosses over the allegationsCredit: Peter Jordan
      Red Bull are yet to make a decision on Horner’s futureCredit: PA More

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      Red Bull chief reveals how Max Verstappen reacted to F1 rival Lewis Hamilton’s shock Ferrari switch

      by

      MAX VERSTAPPEN’s reaction to Lewis Hamilton’s bombshell Ferrari switch announcement has been revealed.Red Bull ace Verstappen dethroned Hamilton as Formula One’s top dog in 2021 when he won the title in controversial circumstances in Abu Dhabi.
      Lewis Hamilton announced a shock move to Ferrari for the 2025 F1 seasonCredit: AP
      Max Verstappen’s reaction to the bombshell news has been revealedCredit: Splash

      Since then the Dutchman has been relentless behind the wheel, putting in record-breaking back-to-back title-winning seasons.
      Meanwhile, Hamilton has struggled to keep pace thanks to Mercedes falling way behind their rivals as a new era of car design was introduced.
      Following two seasons of struggle, the seven-time world champion dropped the huge bombshell that he would be ending his time at Mercedes to fulfil a “childhood dream” to drive for Ferrari from 2025.
      The news broadsided much of the world of F1, including the driver he will replace at the Scuderia Carlos Sainz.
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      Reigning champion Verstappen has not reacted publicly to the news, but has now had his reaction revealed by senior Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko.
      On Verstappen’s reaction, Marko told OE24: “He was just amused.”
      Ferrari driver Sainz was the only non-Red Bull driver to win a race in the 2023 F1 season.
      And it was development shown in the second half of the season which Marko believes was a contributing factor to Hamilton’s decision to make the switch.
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      WHO COULD REPLACE HAMILTON AT MERCEDES? Mercedes will have a vacant seat for 2025.
      Here, SunSport’s F1 correspondent Ben Hunt looks at FIVE potential candidates who could replace him and partner George Russell in the Silver Arrows.
      Oscar Piastri – McLaren have sewn up Lando Norris to a new long-term contract that should (in theory) put him out of Mercedes’ reach. However, they are yet to tie down his teammate Piastri, 22. The Aussie has an excellent record and won the Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles before spending a year on the sidelines with Alpine and getting his chance in F1 with McLaren. He impressed on his debut season last year and has the potential to be a world champion.
      Daniel Ricciardo – The experienced driver’s future remains in doubt as he bides his time at Red Bull’s B-team. Ricciardo would be low-hassle and offer some stability but by that time he would be 35. It seems unlikely that they would opt for him at this point in his career, but if he has a good season this year, he could come into the reckoning.
      Kimi Antonelli – You may not have heard of the Italian, but he is mustard. Still only 17, he has won at all the junior categories and has been part of the Mercedes young driver programme since 2019. This season he has been promoted from F4 to F2, where he has been tipped to shine. A good debut season in F2 could sway Mercedes into taking a risk on him for 2025. Antonelli and his family are close to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.
      Mick Schumacher – Wolff has always been so incredibly supportive of Schumacher and spoken highly of him, that you’d at least expect him to come into consideration. He knows the team from his role as reserve driver and consequently would get up to speed. But speed is also the problem. He was shocking at Haas and if he really was THAT good, he’d still be driving in F1.
      Alex Albon – A more-sensible choice would be the London-born Albon. A great guy who is also very quick. He has a fantastic relationship with Russell and would be the low-maintenance quick partnership similar to Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas that swept to successive titles. Albon would take little convincing to join from Williams and Mercedes would not need to pay him half of the £50million they were dishing out to Hamilton.

      He said: “Mercedes was overtaken by Ferrari in the second half of 2023, and McLaren was also faster.
      “Maybe Hamilton noticed something that the outside world doesn’t yet know.
      Inside Lewis Hamilton’s £13m collection of supercars including £4m classic and £1.6m ride made entirely for him
      “That doesn’t change anything for us, except that I see it as weakening Mercedes.
      “Whether it strengthens Ferrari remains to be seen. Overall, this has an incredible impact, right down to the stock market prices.”
      The lights go out for the new F1 season with the first race on March 2.

      🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      Geri Horner’s inner circle as she fears ‘life unravelling’ over Christian’s Red Bull probe… from Spice Girls to F1 boss

      by

      SHE’S said to be “terrified her life will unravel” amid her husband Christian Horner’s “inappropriate behaviour” investigation.Thankfully, Geri Horner has a strong group of friends who she can turn to for support, including her ex-Spice Girl bandmate Victoria Beckham.
      Geri Horner is supporting her husband Christian Horner through his investigationCredit: AFP
      It’s likely Geri’s pals, like Victoria Beckham, will rally to support herCredit: Getty
      Red Bull boss Christian was grilled for eight hours last week over allegations made by a female colleague, and is currently awaiting the outcome – but insiders reckon it could take months.
      Geri, 51, is understood to be standing by 50-year-old Christian – who strongly denies all the claims – but it’s taking its toll on her.
      A close source said earlier this month: “Geri has been in floods of tears all weekend while looking after her kids. She is insisting Christian has done nothing wrong.”
      The allegations are said to centre on concerns about a strict work regime and do not include sexual impropriety.
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      While Geri’s called Christian her “best friend” in the past, it’s likely she’ll be turning to her inner circle for support in these turbulent times.
      The Beckhams
      Geri has reportedly been leaning heavily on former bandmate Victoria, 49.
      The two have been close ever since their Spice Girls days, with a source telling OK!: “They always got on well and have been there for each other through the difficult times.
      “When Geri was having a bit of a stormy relationship with some of the other Spice Girls, Victoria supported her and helped her through.
      Most read in Motorsport
      “It’s the same now – Victoria wants to support Geri any way she can.”
      It helps that they live nearby – both have luxurious family homes in the Cotswolds.
      Christian Horner SPOTTED at top secret Red Bull test run as he awaits decision in ‘inappropriate behaviour’ probe
      Geri was also a pillar of support to Victoria when her husband David was accused of having an affair back in 2003.
      She was also a shoulder to cry on when David was handed a red card during the 1998 World Cup – which the footballer has called “the most difficult time” in his career.
      The insider added: “Victoria and David have had some really low points together as a couple and Geri was there for her.
      “She’s never forgotten how good Geri was with… the horrible treatment of David after the World Cup.
      “Now she knows it’s her time to be there for Geri, and she wants to look after her and help her.”
      Melanie C
      Geri has called Melanie C her “wonderful Spice sister”Credit: PA:Press Association
      Victoria isn’t the only Spice Girl who Geri has stayed close to.
      She previously confessed she shares an unbreakable bond with Melanie C and Emma Bunton because of the experiences they shared together.
      Appearing on the Frosted Tips podcast, she said: “It’s a unique experience. I think it’s like having university friends or school friends, you have a specific time together and go on an adventure together that is unique.”
      Geri has previously gushed about her friendship with Sporty Spice, 50 – who attended her 50th birthday bash.
      Marking her pal’s 47th birthday, Geri posted a collection of photos of them together, calling her a “wonderful spice sister”.
      She added: “So proud of you. Wishing you so much joy, love & success.”
      Emma Bunton
      Emma Bunton was at Christian’s surprise 50th birthday dinnerCredit: Tim Stewart
      Geri has kept in constant contact with Emma, who attended her wedding to Christian.
      Emma and her husband Jade Jones were also at Christian’s surprise 50th birthday dinner in December, which saw the two women head to a grand piano for an impromptu singalong with none other than Gary Barlow and Rod Stewart.
      Last year Geri confessed Emma’s “kind heart” was the inspiration for a character in her book, Rosie Frost and the Falcon Queen.
      Speaking to Emma on her Heart radio show, she said: “Charlie is my fave. One of my favourite characters, he’s gorgeous, but he’s got your kind heart, he’s like, one of the good guys in life… He’s got that essence of Emma.”
      Baroness Carole Bamford
      Baroness Carole Bamford is one of Geri’s Cotswold friendsCredit: Getty
      Living in the Cotswolds with a multi-millionaire husband, Geri inevitably mixes with members of high society – including Baroness Carole Bamford, who founded the Daylesford Organic empire.
      Carole lives on a 1,500-acre estate near Chipping Norton with her billionaire industrialist husband Anthony, Lord Bamford, whose family own construction giant JCB.
      When Geri was photographed for the cover of Perfect magazine by David Bailey last month, Carole was one of the first to congratulate her on the fancy shoot.
      Bernie and Fabiana Ecclestone 
      Bernie Ecclestone has allegedly advised Christian to step down from Red BullCredit: Getty
      Geri and Christian have former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone to thank for their getting together, as he introduced them back in 2009.
      The couple have stayed close friends with him since, as well as his wife Fabiana Flosi, who he married in 2012.
      The four have regularly been pictured together on luxurious double dates around the world, in places like Croatia and the Swiss Alps.
      Billionaire Bernie, 93, has allegedly advised Christian to step down as Red Bull team principal.
      Sources told F1 Insider he warned his long-term friend that resigning would save him and his family from further damage caused by the fallout of the scandal.
      Penny Lancaster
      Penny Lancaster was at Christian’s dinner
      Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster have been friends with Geri and Christian for years, and attended both of their 50th birthday parties.
      Penny even went out of her way to support Geri at her book launch in October last year, while on crutches after suffering a knee injury.
      Despite having a “torn meniscus on her right knee,” Loose Women panellist Penny seemed upbeat, posing for a picture with pal Geri.
      Rylan Clark
      Geri and Rylan Clark became close pals after presenting This Morning togetherCredit: Instagram
      Rylan and Geri hit it off when they hosted This Morning together, and have been pals ever since.
      The Spice Girls superfan confessed he felt “like a competition winner” when he got to party with Geri, Mel C, Victoria and Emma at Geri’s 50th in 2022.
      It’s likely Rylan will be a tower of support to Geri at the moment, given she was there for him not long after his six-year marriage to Dan Neal ended in 2021.
      The pair were pictured cuddling up together, wearing matching cream outfits, after Geri invited him over to her plush country estate the same year.
      The two music lovers spent the day having an impromptu jamming session, with Geri on the drums and Rylan on the electric guitar, which certainly seemed to lift the BBC Radio 2 presenter’s spirits.
      Mary Fitzgerald  
      Geri Horner and Selling Sunset’s Mary FitzgeraldCredit: Instagram
      In 2021, just a week after Geri had been left devastated by the sudden death of her older brother, Mary Fitzgerald from Selling Sunset revealed they were pals, and had recently met up.
      Sharing a snap of the two together on Instagram, Los Angeles-based Mary wrote: “London is one of my favourite places in the world. 
      “It’s brought us so many memories and so many new friends!”
      Although they live thousands of miles apart, Mary is just a FaceTime away for Geri.
      Dame Judi Dench
      Geri has called Dame Judi Dench her inspirationCredit: Getty
      One surprising friendship Geri has is with Dame Judi Dench, who she met at the No Time To Die premiere in 2021.
      Spice Girl Geri has described the Philomena actress as her inspiration.
      She told The Times: “I met her at the James Bond premiere. She had such a beautiful energy. 
      “Recently I had dinner with her and we did some Shakespeare together. 
      “We were quoting The Merchant of Venice — ‘the quality of mercy is not strained’, and I was like, ‘oh my God, I’m doing Shakespeare with Dame Judi Dench, my life is, my cup is full!’ 
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      “That’s pretty amazing.”
      Last year, Geri took to the stage with Judi at the Christmas with Judi Dench and Gyles Brandreth event at Royal Albert Hall, as part of a night dedicated to Judi’s career in the acting industry. More