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      Seven ‘Kardashian-style’ scandals that plagued Christian Horner’s Red Bull…‘cheat’ claims to star raising rival’s child

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      IN the wake of the bombshell allegations against F1 chief Christian Horner, the Sun lists other scandals that have plagued the Red Bull team in the past years.The team’s boss, 50, was hit by claims of “inappropriate behaviour” in the latest F1 controversy but it is not the first stain on the Red Bull team’s history.
      Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez have been involved in a public feudCredit: Getty
      Christian Horner has been accused of “inappropriate behaviour”Credit: Getty
      Red Bull has been hit by chaos such as when Ricciardo crashed with Verstappen in 2018Credit: Alamy
      Horner is due to be probed by a lawyer today after news broke of the allegations made against him by a female staffer.
      The hearing was initially meant to be held at the team headquarters in Milton Keynes, Bucks but it was moved to a different location last minute.
      The claims sent shockwaves across the F1 World but it’s not the first time Red Bull was involved in a scandal.
      From the ongoing feud between Verstappen and Perez which was described as a “bit like the Kardashian show” by rival Hamilton to Preze’s cheating allegations, the F1 team has seen some challenging times.
      READ MORE ON F1
      ‘A BIT LIKE A KARDASHIAN SHOW’
      The Red Bull team was plagued by a big scandal in 2022 – the controversial Brazilian Grand Prix.
      A public feud between Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez was sparked when the Dutchman defied the team’s orders and did not let his teammate pass him at Sao Paulo – even though he had already secured the season’s title.
      As a result, Perez, who was competing with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc for second place, lost two World Cup points.
      Speaking to Channel 4 about the drama at the time, Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton described it as a “Kardashian show”.
      Most read in Motorsport
      Unearthed footage shows F1 row that TV missed as Verstappen and Ocon both see their laps ruined
      He joked: “I mean, it feels like a bit of a Kardashian show happening here. 
      “It’s pretty hilarious, some of the stuff that I’ve heard over the past few days has been so entertaining.
      “I’m sure it’ll all be on Netflix, it’s going to be great.”
      The Milton Keynes-based team had some time of uncertainty during the final weeks of the season of the same year.
      It handed a whopping £5,5 million fine for breaking F1’s cost-cap rule.
      An FIA statement said that Red Bull triggered a “minor” breach, going over the £114million limit.
      At the time Horner described the penalties as “enormous”.
      He said: “I hear people say it’s not a severe penalty, but 10 per cent less wind tunnel time and other aerodynamic tools is a draconian penalty
      “That can cost up to half a second a lap. It will have an effect on our ability to perform on track next year.”
      CRYPTIC STATEMENT
      When Verstappen was asked to allow his teammate to pass him according to a previous agreement with the team, he refused and said: “I told you already last summer.
      “You guys don’t ask that again to me, ok? Are we clear about that? I gave my reasons and I stand by it.”
      His comment sparked speculation that he had been holding a grudge against Perez since another incident in Monaco earlier in the season.
      Following the row between the two drivers, team chief Horner stated the feud was caused by a team mistake.
      ” I think that was a mistake as a team that we didn’t discuss it and come up with a very clear plan,” he said.
      “Obviously, it was unfortunate what happened, but it was quickly discussed, openly and transparently.
      “And both drivers were very clear, open, and honest with each other, and from that as a team we move on and the dynamic between the drivers is absolutely fine.”
      ‘CHEATING ON WIFE’
      Following the eventful Sao Paolo race, Mexican driver Perez fumed: “It shows who he really is.
      “I have nothing to say, really. After all I’ve done for him, it’s disappointing. I have no idea. I’m really surprised.”
      But his comments did not sit well with Verstappen’s mum Sophie Kumpen who hit back and accused him of cheating on his wife, Carola Martinez.
      I gave my reasons and I stand by itMax Verstappen
      In a since-deleted Instagram post, she wrote: “And then in the evening cheating on his wife.”
      Her comment appears to refer to a video posted online in June showing Perez dancing with mystery women in Monte Carlo.
      Perez celebrated his success by partying on a yacht with footage showing him up close and personal with a brunette before wrapping his arms around a blonde woman’s waist.
      Perez issued a public apology statement afterwards, saying: “I have seen the videos that have been circulating about me and I take responsibility for it.
      Verstappen’s mum Sophie Kumpen hit back at Perez after the race
      Sergio Perez issues a public apology to his wife he was seen dancing with a woman during a partyCredit: Social Media
      Perez was seen embracing a brunette during the yacht partyCredit: Social Media
      “It was a bad party that I didn’t know how to control at the height of the person that I am, but it was just that, a very bad party.
      “People close to me know my values and the type of person that I am. For those who ask me, we are more united than ever, me and my wife.
      “And for those who just want to hurt us, I wish you the best. Thanks for your love and I apologise to all the people who love me because those videos don’t represent me at all.
      “We will not talk about this topic anymore, which only makes us forget the great moment we are living as a family. Thank you.”
      VERSTAPPEN DATING RIVAL’S EX
      Verstappen revealed he has a good relationship with the daughter of his girlfriend Kelly Piquet.
      The Brazilian model, daughter of fiery F1 legend Nelson Piquet, was dating driver Daniil Kvyat from 2017 to 2019 and had daughter Penelope before their split.
      The Dutchaman replaced Kvyat at Red Bull in 2016 an two years later he started dating Piquet.
      In a rare chat about his personal life, he told TIME magazine: “I’m not the father, that’s not the aim.
      “It’s always very important that she has a good relationship with her own father, which she has.
      “But I see her every day when I’m at home. We get on very well. She’s very cute.”
      THE DRAMATIC 2021 ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX  
      In 2021, Red Bull was involved in yet another controversy – this time involving Brit driver Lewis Hamilton.
      Hamilton was pipped to the championship by Max Verstappen on the final lap of the last race when race director Michael Masi appeared to incorrectly allow Verstappen the chance to overtake Hamilton.
      The incident left the Mercedes team furious accusing race bosses of bending the rules.
      But after a four-and-a-half hour battle to have the decision overturned it was finally rejected and Verstappen remained World Champion.
      According to a report by the FIA the incident was down to “human error” but the results were “valid”.
      ‘XENOPHOBIC COMMENTS’
      Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko was hit with a written warning by the FIA for his comments made towards Sergio Perez.
      The outspoken Austrian was quoted saying Perez, who is from Mexico, “is South American and he is just not as completely focused in his head as Max [Verstappen] is or as Sebastian [Vettel]”.
      Despite the 80-year-old Austrian offering an apology for his “offensive” words against Checo, the remarks caused a backlash on social media with calls to remove Marko from his duties.
      The FIA said that Marko received a “written warning and was reminded of his responsibilities as a public figure in motorsport in line with the FIA code of ethics.”
      The year before Red Bull sacked junior driver Juri Vips after he used a racial slur on a live stream.
      The 21-year-old Estonian is believed to have used the N-word while playing Call of Duty online with team-mate Liam Lawson.
      ‘UNKIND’
      A few years earlier, Marko was involved in a public fall-out with Mark Webber after his comments regarding the Australian’s performance in an interview.
      The remarks were taken as harsh criticism by Webber but in 2018, Marko never intended to offend him.
      He told F1: “With Mark it was a misinterpretation. I don’t set out to be unkind.
      “I was asked why Vettel is champion and why Mark isn’t,” he recalled. “So I tried to explain the difference and there were just some facts.
      “I say what I believe. And I say it to make something better, to help people to come up with their own solutions.”
      He added: “All these circumstances were what I tried to express, and the magazine thought that I was against Mark, which is not true,” Marko said. “[Drivers] get the same treatment here with us.
      “I didn’t think it should be taken to criticise Mark.
      “But I said if he was able to keep his performance over the whole season, then he would have been the champion.
      “Mark was already a driver with a good reputation,” he noted. “It was always, ‘If he is in the right car, he will be a winner.’ And then came the right car, but unfortunately along came Vettel as well.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “Psychologically it must [have been] very, very hard for Mark.”
      Hamilton described Red Bull’s drama as ” a Kardashian show”Credit: AFP
      Verstappen pictured with his girlfriend Kelly PiquetCredit: Getty
      Helmut Marko had to apologise to Perez after his “offensive” commentsCredit: Getty More

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      Christian Horner updates — Red Bull boss set for hearing following allegations with F1 chief’s future to be decided

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      CHRISTIAN Horner will face his hearing today over allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female member of staff at Red Bull.The crunch talks will determine whether the F1 chief, 50, will keep his job as the team’s head.
      Horner is said to be preparing to fight to save his future at Red Bull after he vowed to pals to “clear his name.”
      An independent lawyer who has been appointed to examine the woman’s claims is set to quiz him at the meeting today.
      Read our live blog below for the latest news and updates…
      When does the F1 season start?
      The 2024 Formula One season begins in just a few short weeks.
      The action kicks off in Sakhir on March 2 with the Bahrain Grand Prix.
      Red Bull is reportedly hoping to have its internal investigation completed by then, although that has not been confirmed.
      Copy linkCopiedChristian Horner pictured ahead of talks
      Christian Horner was pictured ahead of his hearing today over allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female member of staff.
      The meeting – which will determine whether the F1 chief, 50, will keep his job as the team’s head – was moved last minute to a secret location.

      Copy linkCopiedThe ‘Kardashian-style’ scandals that plagued Christian Horner’s Red Bull
      The Red Bull F1 team has been plagued with controversy in recent years.
      So we looked back on seven of the scandals that hit Christian Horner’s team prior to this week’s allegations.
      From the team’s drivers clashing to accusations of “xenophobia” it hasn’t always been an easy ride for the Austrian team.

      Copy linkCopiedHorner continued in role amid allegations
      Neither Horner nor his accuser have been suspended and continue to work among 1,600 employees at Red Bull’s HQ.
      Horner was seen on Thursday leaving his Highgate home for the first time since news broke of the bombshell allegations.
      And today the F1 boss is reportedly attending a hearing to determine his future at the company.
      Copy linkCopiedWhere is the meeting taking place?
      Originally set to take place in Red Bull’s Milton Keynes HQ, it is believed the meeting’s location was moved amid high media interest.
      Now, it has been reported the hearing will take place in London.
      No outcome is expected today.
      Copy linkCopiedExternal lawyer hired to probe claims
      The world of Formula One was left in shock on Monday after it emerged that Horner had been placed under investigation by Red Bull Austria.
      The parent company said that after being informed of “certain recent allegations” it had hired an “external, specialist lawyer” to probe the claims.
      It has allegedly compiled a “dossier of incriminating material” regarding “inappropriate and controlling behaviour” towards one female staffer.
      Copy linkCopiedWho could replace Christian Horner?
      Perhaps the first name that comes to mind is Oliver Oakes.
      Oakes, 35, would be a ready-made replacement, owing to the similar career path he shares with Horner.
      The Brit is a former racing driver turned team-owner in the lower formulas.
      However, Oakes is also a former Red Bull junior driver so has strong links with the race team and the company’s HQ in Austria.

      Copy linkCopiedWhat is Christian Horner’s net worth?
      Christian has amassed considerable wealth thanks to his career in motorsport racing.
      He is the highest-paid team boss in F1 and has an estimated salary of around £8million ($10m) a year after joining Red Bull in 2005.
      With that in mind, he has collected a reported £440million fortune.
      Copy linkCopiedWhat has Christian Horner been accused of?
      Formula One was rocked on Monday by the news that the sport’s longest-standing team principal had been placed under investigation by Red Bull Austria.
      The company has allegedly compiled a “dossier of incriminating material” regarding inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards one female staffer, The Telegraph reports.
      Horner issued an immediate denial on Monday, stating: “I reject these claims entirely.”
      Copy linkCopiedGeri Halliwell supporting husband with ‘every fibre of her being’
      Geri Halliwell is standing by her husband Christian Horner, a source has said.
      The source revealed: “She is committed to him with every fibre of her being.”
      However, the scandal engulfing her husband has blown a “Grand Canyon-sized crack” right in the middle of her “super-perfect, super-posh life,” they claimed.
      Another source close the singer told The Sun on Monday: “Geri has been in floods of tears all weekend while looking after her kids.
      “She is insisting Christian has done nothing wrong.”
      Copy linkCopiedGeri Halliwell ‘too upset to talk’ amid Christian Horner allegations
      A friend revealed that Geri Halliwell is “not talking to anyone at the moment,” following the emergence of allegations against husband Christian Horner.
      They told the Daily Mail: “Geri seems to be simply too upset to engage with anyone. Just lots of tears.
      “She will stand by him and be at his side just as much as she always has been. She never misses a race and that will not change.”
      Copy linkCopiedRed Bull hopes for resolution before season begins
      Red Bull is said to want the issue sorted out before the first race meeting of the new F1 season, which starts in Bahrain at the end of the month.
      Neither Horner nor his accuser have been suspended and continue to work among 1,600 employees at the Austrian team’s HQ.
      Horner was seen on Thursday leaving his Highgate home for the first time since news broke of the bombshell allegations.
      Copy linkCopiedHearing location moved amid high media interest
      The hearing was initially meant to be held at the Red Bull team headquarters in Milton Keynes, Bucks, but the high media interest forced officials to move it to a different location, the Times reports.
      Horner is said to be preparing to fight to save his future at Red Bull after he vowed to pals to “clear his name.”
      An independent lawyer who has been appointed to examine the allegations is set to quiz him at the meeting today.
      Copy linkCopiedWho is Red Bull’s chief executive?
      Since the death of co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2022 there have been rumours of internal issues within Red Bull.
      After the billionaire’s death, Red Bull drafted a new board of directors to oversee the business.
      Former RB Leipzig CEO Oliver Mintzlaff was appointed chief executive.
      Despite Red Bull enjoying its most successful season in F1 history in 2023, there was speculation of a rift between Horner and Helmut Marko – Red Bull GmBH’s motorsport advisor.
      Copy linkCopiedWhat has Christian Horner said about the claims?
      Horner issued an immediate denial on Monday, stating: “I reject these claims entirely.”
      His defenders have claimed the accusations are part of a plot to oust him within the team amid an internal power struggle.
      Copy linkCopiedGeri will standby her husband
      Horner’s Spice Girl wife Geri Halliwell, 51, is said to be devastated by the bombshell allegations – but will firmly stand by her husband, who she married in 2015.
      A source said: “[She is] not talking to anyone at the moment. Geri seems to be simply too upset to engage with anyone. Just lots of tears.
      “She will stand by him and be at his side just as much as she always has been. She never misses a race and that will not change.”
      Copy linkCopiedExternal lawyer hired to probe claims
      The world of Formula One was left in shock on Monday after it emerged that Horner had been placed under investigation by Red Bull Austria.
      The parent company said that after being informed of “certain recent allegations” it had hired an “external, specialist lawyer” to probe the claims.
      It has allegedly compiled a “dossier of incriminating material” regarding “inappropriate and controlling behaviour” towards one female staffer.
      Copy linkCopiedRed Bull want the issue resolved before first race meeting
      Red Bull is said to want the issue sorted out before the first race meeting of the new F1 season, which starts in Bahrain at the end of the month.
      Neither Horner nor his accuser have been suspended and continue to work among 1,600 employees at the Austrian team’s HQ.
      Copy linkCopiedChristian Horner pictured ahead of talks
      Christian Horner was pictured ahead of his hearing today over allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female member of staff.
      The meeting – which will determine whether the F1 chief, 50, will keep his job as the team’s head – was moved last-minute to a secret location.

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      Christian Horner pictured ahead of Red Bull talks TODAY as ‘inappropriate behaviour’ hearing moved to ‘secret location’

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      RED Bull boss Christian Horner was pictured leaving his Highgate home ahead of his D-Day hearing today over allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female member of staff.The meeting that will determine whether the F1 chief, 50, will keep his job as the team’s head was moved last-minute to a secret location.
      Horner was pictured this morning ahead of the hearingCredit: LNP
      The Red Bull chief is about to attend a hearing over allegations of “inappropriate behaviour”Credit: Peter Jordan
      Horner has not been suspended and he continues working at the team’s HQ in Milton KeynesCredit: Peter Jordan
      The Red Bull boss will be quizzed by an independent lawyer todayCredit: Getty
      The Spice Girl star is reportedly refusing to speak to ‘anyone’ about the allegationsCredit: Getty
      The hearing was initially meant to be held at the team headquarters in Milton Keynes, Bucks but the high media interest forced Red Bull officials to move it to a different location the Times report.
      Horner is said to be preparing to fight to save his future at Red Bull after he vowed to pals to “clear his name.”
      An independent lawyer who has been appointed to examine the woman’s claims is set to quiz him at the meeting today.
      But F1 sources suggested the case may not be resolved before the launch of Red Bull’s 2024 car on February 15.
      READ MORE ON HORNER
      Red Bull is said to want the issue sorted out before the first race meeting of the new F1 season, which starts in Bahrain at the end of the month.
      Neither Horner nor his accuser have been suspended and continue to work among 1,600 employees at the Austrian team’s HQ.
      Horner was seen on Thursday leaving his Highgate home for the first time since news broke of the bombshell allegations.
      The world of Formula One was left in shock on Monday after it emerged that Horner had been placed under investigation by Red Bull Austria.
      Most read in Motorsport
      The parent company said that after being informed of “certain recent allegations” it had hired an “external, specialist lawyer” to probe the claims.
      It has allegedly compiled a “dossier of incriminating material” regarding “inappropriate and controlling behaviour” towards one female staffer.

      Horner issued an immediate denial on Monday, stating: “I reject these claims entirely.”
      His defenders have claimed the accusations are part of a plot to oust him within the team amid an internal power struggle.
      Rumours of the unrelated internal issues within the team’s leadership have swirled since the death of co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2022.
      After the billionaire’s death, Red Bull drafted a new board of directors to oversee the business.
      Former RB Leipzig CEO Oliver Mintzlaff was appointed chief executive.
      Despite Red Bull enjoying its most successful season in F1 history in 2023, there was speculation of a rift between Horner and Helmut Marko – Red Bull GmBH’s motorsport advisor.
      Rumours even went as far as to suggest Horner was determined to get rid of Marko, 80, from the team.
      A look at Christian Horner’s life and career
      CHRISTIAN 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

      Horner’s Spice Girl wife Geri Halliwell, 51, is said to be devastated by the bombshell allegations – but will firmly stand by her husband, who she married in 2015.
      A source said: “[She is] not talking to anyone at the moment. Geri seems to be simply too upset to engage with anyone. Just lots of tears.
      “She will stand by him and be at his side just as much as she always has been. She never misses a race and that will not change.”
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Another source told The Mail: “She is committed to him with every fibre of her being.”
      The meeting was meant to be held at the headquarters in Milton Keynes but Red Bull officials changed location last-minuteCredit: PA
      His wife Geri Halliwell is ‘standing firm by his side’Credit: Getty
      Christian Horner pictured leaving his Highgate home on ThursdayCredit: Ray Collins More

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      Lewis Hamilton’s secret clause in Mercedes contract ‘revealed’ after F1 legend signs £100million Ferrari deal

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      LEWIS HAMILTON reportedly had a secret clause in his contract with Mercedes which could affect his time at Ferrari.The British driver will join the Italian team for the 2025 season after activating a break clause in his Mercedes deal.
      Lewis Hamilton will not be able to poach anyone from MercedesCredit: Rex
      He had been linked with bringing Peter Bonnington to Ferrari with himCredit: AFP
      Hamilton, 39, signed a two-year deal with Ferrari worth £100 million.
      This will bring an end to his 11-year association with the Brackley-based Silver Arrows.
      However, he will not be allowed to bring anyone with him to Maranello.
      PlanetF1.com have claimed that Hamilton had a “no-poaching” clause in his deal to prevent him from doing that.

      Hamilton had been linked with a move to take race engineer Peter ‘Bono’ Bonnington with him.
      But Mercedes are said to have said that the existence of the clause was “accurate”.
      This type of clause is not uncommon in F1 as Sebastian Vettel, 36, had a similar one when he was at Red Bull.
      The German was unable to take race engineer Guillaume ‘Rocky’ Rocquelin with him when he joined Ferrari in 2015.
      Most read in Motorsport
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES

      Hamilton’s move to Ferrari shouldn’t come as a surprise, as he admitted in 2015 that he was keen to drive for the Italians before retiring.
      He will become the 12th Brit to get behind the wheel and race for Ferrari.
      The richest Wags in F1 revealed with some earning thousands from Instagram
      Former world champion Jenson Button reckons Fernando Alonso would be the ideal candidate to replace Hamilton at Mercedes.
      Button told Sky F1: “I might have a bit of a man-crush on my ex-team-mate, but I would love to see Fernando Alonso. 
      “He is 42 now, but the hunger is there. And if the hunger is there, the fitness is there.”

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

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      Inside Geri and Christian Horner’s rollercoaster love story… from controversial engagement to £80k ring & baby struggles

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      THEIR charmed country life has led to nearly a decade of apparent marital bliss.But Geri Horner was said to be “too upset” to talk to “anyone” this week after her F1 boss husband Christian was hit by allegations of “inappropriate behaviour”.
      Geri and Christian Horner married in 2015Credit: Fame Flynet
      Christian’s parents did not attend their wedding after a fallout over his exCredit: Instagram / gerihalliwellhorner
      First introduced to each other by Bernie Ecclestone 15 years ago, the couple are worth an incredible £440million and have piled their fortune into two country manors – including 14 stables for their horses.
      The former Spice Girl, who previously sweared off marriage, was steered down the aisle by the Red Bull Racing chief, who proposed following a whirlwind romance – despite having to Google her before their first date.
      Their engagement hit an early road bump as Christian’s “devastated” parents refused to attend their wedding in 2015 after he moved on swiftly from ex Beverley Allen, whom he was with for 14 years.
      Having put that crisis behind them, he will be hoping to weather another storm as he prepares for a ‘D-Day’ showdown with a lawyer tomorrow.
      Read more on the Spice Girls
      The 50-year-old is accused of “controlling behaviour” with a female work colleague, amid claims he could be gone by “next week” after “losing support” from the Red Bull team.
      Sources say the investigation is set to centre on the employee’s concerns about Horner’s strict work regime and does not relate to any sexual impropriety.
      The news has reportedly sent Geri, who is often seen cheering on her husband’s championship-winning team at Grand Prixs, into “full lockdown”.
      But a source told the Mail: “She will stand by him and be at his side just as much as she always has been. She never misses a race and that will not change.”
      Most read in Motorsport
      The couple and their blended family in 2017. Left to right: Bluebell, Montague and OliviaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Geri has been an ever-present fixture at Grand PrixsCredit: Getty
      Whirlwind romance
      Geri first met Christian through her F1 boss pal Bernie Ecclestone after he invited her to the Monaco Grand Prix in 2009.
      Christian told the Telegraph: “(Geri) was a guest of (former CEO of the Formula One Group) Bernie Ecclestone’s in Monaco one year and came down the pit lane.
      Geri Horner transforms into White Spice as she ditches colourful clothes in favour of ‘ladylike’ white outfits
      “I remember (McLaren boss) Ron Dennis was standing next to me and Eddie Jordan was there as well.
      “She gave Ron a kiss on the cheek, and she gave Eddie a kiss on the cheek. So I thought, ‘OK, I’m on for a kiss on the cheek here!’ And I went to give her one and she shoved her hand out at me.”
      At the time, Christian was with his former pub landlady partner Beverley Allen, and was stepdad to her two children, Kieron, 35, and Liam, 31.
      The couple had dreamed of having a child of their own and in October 2013, Beverley gave birth to a daughter, Olivia.
      Sadly, six months after the birth, the couple split and by March 2014, Christian had moved on with Geri.
      I didn’t marry Geri because she’s a Spice Girl. I married her because I fell in love with herChristian
      Remarkably, it later emerged that the racing fanatic had never even heard of one of the Spice Girls’ biggest hits before their first date, according to the Mirror.
      A source told the newspaper: “Before they went on their first date, Christian googled Geri – and found a video of her doing the song.
      “Geri found it hilarious that he had to research her beforehand and the song has become a running joke.”
      Christian later said: “I didn’t marry Geri because she’s a Spice Girl. I married her because I fell in love with her.”
      In October 2014, the new couple announced their engagement in The Times newspaper. Christian proposed with an elegant diamond engagement ring thought to be worth almost £80,000.
      Christian broke up with Beverley Allen shortly before moving on with Geri
      Geri and Christian first met at the Monaco Grand Prix after F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone (pictured) invited herCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Geri said her mother’s divorce had put her off getting married, but that everything had changed after she met Christian.
      She explained: “The thing is my mother, she got divorced so it kind of put me off a bit if I’m honest and I hadn’t met anyone that I felt it was right (with) really.
      “And when I met Christian, I automatically knew, I did, I actually said to my friend, ‘I think I’ve met the man I want to marry’.
      They tied the knot in a stunning ceremony at St Mary’s Church in Woburn, Bedfordshire, in May 2015, with celebrity guests including fellow Spice Girl Emma Bunton, Amanda Holden and Myleene Klass.
      Geri wore a dress by British designer Phillipa Lepley and belted out a solo performance of Wannabe in a cheeky nod to their first date at a reception on the grounds of Woburn Abbey after the wedding.
      Geri and Christian appeared to have the perfect life together from the outsideCredit: social media
      The couple regularly share pictures on social media showing their country pursuitsCredit: Instagram @therealgerihalliwell
      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, 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

      Geri later told Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby that her wedding day was the “happiest day of my life”.
      However, it wasn’t as happy an occasion for Christian’s parents, who failed to attend.
      After the engagement was announced, one of his devastated relatives told the Sunday Mirror: “You can say that his parents are absolutely devastated. We won’t be going to the wedding.
      “There is a lot more to this story than people know about – to do with his ex-partner.”
      However, Christian and Geri, who has a daughter called Bluebell Madonna from a previous relationship, eventually managed to patch things up with his parents and Beverley.
      Christian told the Telegraph: “I have a great relationship with Beverley and Beverley gets on with Geri.
      “It’s totally harmonious.”
      I’d got to thinking I have a child, my husband has a daughter, and accepting this is our lot. Then Monty came naturallyGeri Horner
      Geri and Christian also went through the emotional rollercoaster of IVF treatment before she finally gave birth to their son, Monty, naturally in January 2017.
      She told Red magazine: “I’d tried an assisted route and it didn’t work. 
      “I feel for any woman that has that natural biological longing, it’s tough. 
      “I’d got to thinking I have a child, my husband has a daughter, and accepting this is our lot. Then Monty came naturally.”
      The Spice Girl later admitted that Monty had picked up some of her rebellious traits.
      That same year, she told Hello!: “He’s a pretty chilled baby for the most part, which he gets more from Christian, but then we’ll encounter a bit of protest and I think, ‘Ah, there’s the Halliwell!’.”
      Country life
      In the decade since their marriage, Geri and Christian appear to have blended seamlessly into each others’ lives.
      The former pop star is an ever-present fixture at F1 races, while Christian looks every bit the English gentleman in Instagram posts from their Cotswold bolthole.
      Christian looks ever the English gentleman as he sits atop his horse in a tweed jacketCredit: Instagram @christianhorner
      Christian standing on the steps of his luxurious home with daughter OliviaCredit: Instagram @christianhorner
      Geri can often be found caring for the animals on their two estates, which are home to horses, chickens, donkeys and goats.
      The couple’s main base is their lavish Grade-II listed mansion in Marston St Lawrence, near Banbury, Oxfordshire.
      The manor house boasts a sprawling garden, a boating lake and a tennis court.
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      Just last month reports emerged of plans to build a 40ft by 16ft swimming pool, a fountain, a topiary and sunbeds at their Oxfordshire property.
      The pair also own a home in Hertfordshire, where they spent lockdown, and where the Spice Girls reunited for the first time in six years in 2018.
      Geri and Christian meeting the kingCredit: Getty
      The couple have an incredible 14 stablesCredit: Geri Horner/Instagram More

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      British GP will stay at Silverstone for another TEN YEARS as stunning £300million deal is signed

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      BRITISH GP bosses have agreed a new 10-year deal with Formula One keeping the race at Silverstone.The deal is expected to cost around £300 million and run until 2034 – safeguarding the UK’s home race on the F1 calendar.
      Silverstone have announced a new ten-year deal to stay on the F1 calendarCredit: AFP
      Silverstone attracted a record crowd of 480,000 people in 2023Credit: PA
      Last year the race attracted a record crowd of 480,000 across the weekend with more than 60,000 fans camping in the local area.
      This year’s race will be another sell-out boosted by concerts by Stormzy and Kings of Leon.
      Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1, said: “I am delighted to announce that the British Grand Prix will remain on the calendar for ten more years with this agreement.
      “Silverstone is an iconic venue at the heart of F1 history and as it approaches its ninth decade hosting Grands Prix, the event continues to attract fans from around the world for fantastic racing on track and the amazing fan experience off it.”
      READ MORE IN F1
      Stuart Pringle, Chief Executive Officer, of Silverstone, added: “This long-term commitment reflects the importance of the British Grand Prix to F1 and their acknowledgement of our ability to deliver a world-class experience for the British fans who are among the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable in the world.
      “The cheers of support for the home teams, and particularly for the British drivers on the grid, makes the Silverstone atmosphere unique and I am looking forward to harnessing this passion for our sport and taking the event to the next level in the coming decade.”
      The news comes in a busy seven days in which Lewis Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes at the end of this season.
      Meanwhile, Red Bull chief Christian Horner will be quizzed on Friday after an internal investigation into inappropriate behaviour.
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      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
      The Silverstone announcement comes a week after another iconic track, Suzuka, announced a deal to continue hosting F1 races in Japan until 2029.
      Last month F1 also announced the arrival of the Madrid GP to the calendar from 2026 in a ten-year deal.
      The richest Wags in F1 revealed with some earning thousands from Instagram

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

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      ‘Christian’s done nothing wrong’ Geri Halliwell told pals ahead of Red Bull grilling weeks before their 10th anniversary

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      GINGER Spice Geri Halliwell is adamant her F1 boss hubby has “done nothing wrong”, sources close to the star say.Red Bull Racing chief Christian Horner, 50, is due to be probed by a lawyer on Friday over shock allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female colleague.
      Christian Horner of Red Bull Racing and his wife Geri HalliwellCredit: Getty
      Christian Horner was pictured leaving his Highgate home this morning, in what was the first sighting of him since news of the allegations brokeCredit: Ray Collins
      Sources say Ginger Spice Geri Halliwell is now refusing to speak to ‘anyone’Credit: Getty
      News of the allegations broke on Monday as Horner was locked in preparations for Red Bull’s defence of its championship titles – and just weeks out from Horner and Geri’s 10-year anniversary.
      Geri, 51, has told pals she does not believe the woman’s claims.
      A source close to the Spice Girl said: “Geri has been in floods of tears all weekend while looking after her kids.
      “She is insisting Christian has done nothing wrong.”
      Read more on Christian Horner
      The Red Bull F1 boss, who runs the all-conquering team of world champion Max Verstappen and is on an estimated salary of £8million, said: “I completely deny these claims.”
      He broke cover for the first time today as he prepares to face a D-Day grilling over the allegations.
      It is understood the woman complained to the team’s parent company at Red Bull in Austria, which said on Monday: “After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation.
      “This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister.
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      “The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible.
      “It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.”
      Spice Girl Geri Horner posts loved-up message to husband Christian as Red Bull F1 boss turns 50
      Former racing driver Horner married Geri at a church wedding in Woburn, Beds in 2015 following a year-long engagement.
      Horner has a seven-year-old son with Geri and a daughter from a previous relationship, while Geri has a 17-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.
      The fresh allegations come just weeks out from the 10-year anniversary of when Horner and Geri started dating in March 2014.
      Sources have predicted Horner could be gone by “next week” after “losing support” from his team amid the probe.
      All parties involved in the investigation are understood to want to have reached “a conclusion” before Red Bull’s 2024 car is launched on February 15, The Telegraph reports.
      Red Bull Racing’s Austria-based parent company has reportedly compiled a “dossier of incriminating material” regarding inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards one female staffer.
      Horner immediately denied the allegations, stating on Monday: “I reject these claims entirely.”
      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

      The investigation is, according to sources, going to focus on the complainant’s concerns about Horner’s strict work regime and does not relate to any sexual impropriety.
      An F1 source told The Sun: “Christian had concerns about her conduct and made it clear he was unhappy.
      “She went on to make a complaint about his ‘controlling’ behaviour, which detonated this crisis for the team.”
      Formula One’s longest-standing team principal could be replaced by Red Bull team manager Jonathan Wheatley on an interim basis if required, insiders allege.
      A pal close to Horner yesterday said he is confident the F1 boss will be cleared of any wrongdoing.
      The source told the Daily Mail: “Christian is speaking privately and says that he will clear his name and come through this.”
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      It comes as Horner’s team, steered by world champ Max Verstappen, prepares for the start of the 2024 season, with the first race to kick off in Bahrain on March 2.
      Red Bull has won seven F1 world drivers’ championships and six world constructors’ titles since Horner took over as team principal in 2005.
      Horner will fight to save his career on Friday
      Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner and Geri Halliwell pose after the F1 Grand Prix of Italy in 2014Credit: Getty More

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      Five candidates who could replace Christian Horner at Red Bull amid probe into allegations of inappropriate behaviour

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      RED BULL boss Christian Horner is set to face a hearing into allegations of inappropriate behaviour on Friday.The fall-out could have huge ramifications on the 50-year-old who has been with the team since January 2005.
      Christian Horner is facing an inquest into allegations of inappropriate behaviourCredit: Splash
      Here SunSport looks at the five candidates who could replace him, if he leaves his position.
      Oliver Oakes
      Oliver Oakes is currently team boss of the Hitech GP teamCredit: Getty
      Oakes would be a ready-made replacement and interestingly has a similar career path to Horner.
      The Brit, 35, is a former racing driver turned team-owner in the lower formulas, just like Horner.
      However, Oakes is also a former Red Bull junior driver so has strong links with the race team and company’s HQ in Austria.
      READ MORE ON CHRISTIAN HORNER
      He is currently team boss of the Hitech GP team that had applied to join F1 in 2026, only for their bid to be rejected.
      Hitech GP compete in Formula 2 and Formula 3 and run drivers from the Red Bull young driver programme.
      Jonathan Wheatley
      Jonathan Wheatley is the current Red Bull Racing Team ManagerCredit: Getty
      The 56-year-old currently serves as Red Bull Racing’s Sporting Director.
      Wheatley started in F1 with Benetton as a junior mechanic working his way up to become the chief mechanic until he joined Red Bull in 2006.
      Most read in Motorsport
      He has held the role of team manager and is now responsible for the operation of the team with many feeling his work has been a major factor behind the team’s success.
      Wheatley shot to prominence as a result of his radio messages with former race director Michael Masi at the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP where Max Verstappen controversially beat Lewis Hamilton to the title.
      Christian Horner admits Mercedes ‘f***ed up’ with Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen won F1 title thanks to cramp
      Guenther Steiner
      Gunether Steiner has previously worked with Red BullCredit: Getty
      The colourful Italian is out of work after being ditched by the Haas team over the winter.
      Steiner has bags of F1 experience and is a popular figure in the paddock although has never taken charge of a team capable of fighting for wins.
      However, his previous spell working at Red Bull as a technical manager was littered with problems of poor performance and overheating issues with the car.
      Oliver Mintzlaf
      Oliver Mintzlaff previously worked in football with RB LeipzigCredit: Getty
      The German businessman is currently serving as part of a three-man management team of Red Bull.
      He previously held the role working as CEO of Red Bull Leipzig and as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer.
      The former long-distance runner, 48, has also worked for sportswear giants, Puma.
      While he has no experience of running an F1 team, he would offer the energy drink a safe pair of hands until they found a permanent replacement.
      Jos Verstappen and Helmut Marko
      Jos Verstappen and Helmut Marko would be a controversial choiceCredit: Getty
      A double-act of Max Verstappen’s father and Red Bull’s advisor would be a controversial choice.
      Both are aligned with the current world champion and would see the team effectively be wrapped around the Dutchman.
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      That would not bode well for Sergio Perez, who is in the other seat.
      Both Marko and Verstappen are former F1 drivers but in the interests of rebuilding harmony, it would be an unthinkable suggestion. More