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    Christian Horner sexting accuser left ‘upset & scared’ over scandal but is ‘determined for truth to come out’, pal says

    CHRISITAN Horner’s accuser has been left “upset, scared and intimidated” over the sexting scandal, according to a family friend.The unnamed woman, who accused the Red Bull Racing chief of abusive behaviour and sexual harassment, is said to be “determined for the truth to come out”.Horner looks on in the pits during Free Practice Two at the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit in Melbourne, Australia, on March 22Credit: EPAThe F1 boss pictured with wife Geri HalliwellCredit: GettyHorner, 50, was cleared of misconduct by a Red Bull investigation back in February.But the scandal was taken to a new level when sexually suggestive texts appearing to be sent by the F1 boss were leaked.Horner’s accuser – a female colleague – has since been suspended by Red Bull and has appealed the decision.She has been left feeling “very upset, angry, scared, intimidated and lonely” following the saga, a family friend told BBC Sport.More on Christian HornerThe insider added: “Every time I have asked her something, she breaks down in tears and says she’s got no-one to talk to because she’s not allowed to talk.”The woman lodged a complaint with Red Bull in December and now “struggles to understand” how it was dismissed following an investigation, the pal said.She plans to take her case to an employment tribunal as she wants to return to work for the championship-winning team, it is understood.The friend added: “She is determined for the truth to come out.Most read in Motorsport”She just wants to work in the sport and is very concerned about her reputation and ability to get hired by anyone.”Horner has always denied any wrongdoing over the allegations and blasted the infamous text leak as “anonymous speculation”.Christian Horner should QUIT Red Bull after sexting scandal – this is the Max Verstappen show now, ex-F1 star saysHe has demanded an end to the drama which he described as a “very trying period” for his family.His wife Geri has stood by him – appearing at his side at the races in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, both won by Red Bull.At the weekend, the pair – who wed in 2015 – put on a united front at a Point to Point in Buckinghamshire.But there is set to be more heartache for the Ginger Spice star as Horner’s sexting scandal is set to be covered in the next season of the hit Netflix show Drive to Survive.Show chief James Gay-Rees has revealed his team plans to include the saga that rocked F1 in the documentary’s seventh season.It will potentially reopen wounds for Horner and his wife as they attempt to move on from the drama.Horner has previously raged against the scrutiny over the scandal – but now it will be the focus of the Netflix show watched by millions.Brit filmmaker Gay-Rees revealed he has spoken to the Red Bull chief since the scandal broke before the start of the F1 season.He claims the ex-racing driver told him: “This is all your fault.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHorner appears to have been referencing the new focus Drive to Survive has put on F1 – especially drama and scandal behind the scenes of the Grand Prix circus.Horner and wife Geri after the Formula One Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, Saudi Arabia, on March 9Credit: APHorner and his driver Max Verstappen have already won two races in 2024Credit: GettySCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
    FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
    FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
    FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
    FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
    FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
    FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
    FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
    FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
    MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
    MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
    MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job. He denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
    MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
    MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.
    MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared.
    MAR 16: The female employee lodges a complaint against Horner with the FIA.
    MAR 17: Horner reportedly agrees to ‘public ceasefire’ with senior Red Bull Racing management to quell the drama More

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    Max Verstappen ‘close to Mercedes deal’ reveals F1 legend as he slams Red Bull for ‘stupid’ decision

    MAX VERSTAPPEN is closing in on a deal to join Mercedes, according to one former Formula One icon.Verstappen, 26, has been linked with an exit from Red Bull amid the controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner.Johnny Herbert has revealed Max Verstappen is close to agreeing a deal with MercedesCredit: GettyVerstappen (left) has been linked with an exit from Red Bull following the sexting controversy surrounding Christian Horner (right)Credit: EPABritish racing legend Johnny Herbert, 59, has revealed he has heard that a deal for the three-time world champion to switch teams is “close”, but thinks Red Bull should do what they can to prevent it.Rumours around a potential exit for Verstappen come amid the storm engulfing Red Bull Racing in the wake of allegations of controlling behaviour made by a female staffer against Horner.And Herbert has made it clear he thinks the storm itself is bad for the sport of F1 while discussing Verstappen’s future.He told The Sun: “It’s not a good thing for F1 with the whole thing going on and the belated heat on it.”READ MORE IN F1The three-time Grand Prix winner who raced in F1 between 1989 and 2000, argued: “It doesn’t help the situation for Red Bull who have the best driver in the world at the present time.”And they’re very close to pushing [Max Verstappen] out of the team, I’ve heard they are getting quite close with the deal with Mercedes.” Herbert suggested that Red Bull would be “stupid” to let the best driver in F1 leave their team as a result of the fallout.He said: “It seems like a stupid thing to do, their biggest asset is not the Christian Horner show.”Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe added that it would be “crazy” for the F1 chief to stay due to his “arrogance”.The embattled Red Bull boss strongly denies all the allegations and was cleared of misconduct by an internal probe on February 28.Spice Girls ‘rallying behind’ Geri Halliwell, Mel B says amid sexting scandal plaguing F1 boss husband Christian HornerHowever, only 24 hours later a string of sexually suggestive texts between Horner and his female accuser were leaked – re-igniting the scandal.Should Verstappen leave for Mercedes he would likely be replacing Lewis Hamilton who announced he would be leaving the Silver Arrows to join Ferrari at the end of the season.SCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
    FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
    FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
    FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
    FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
    FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
    FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
    FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
    FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
    MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
    MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
    MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job. He denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
    MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
    MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.
    MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared.
    MAR 16: The female employee lodges a complaint against Horner with the FIA.
    MAR 17: Horner reportedly agrees to ‘public ceasefire’ with senior Red Bull Racing management to quell the drama More

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    Christian Horner should QUIT Red Bull after sexting scandal – this is the Max Verstappen show now, ex-F1 star says

    RED Bull chief Christian Horner should step down before the team is ripped apart by his sexting scandal, a former F1 star warned.British racing legend Johnny Herbert told The Sun that “the Horner show” must end so the team can cling onto their true star, Max Verstappen.Brit racing star Johnny Herbert said Christian Horner should step aside in the wake of the sexting stormCredit: APHorner and reigning world champion Max Verstappen are picture at the Saudi Grand Prix on March 9Credit: EPAHebert told The Sun that ‘it’s not about the Christian Horner show, it’s about the Max Verstappen show’Credit: GettyThe ex-Sky Sports pundit, 59, said the storm engulfing Red Bull Racing in the wake of allegations of controlling behaviour made by a female staffer against Horner, 50, is impacting all of F1.He said: “It’s not a good thing for F1 with the whole thing going on and the belated heat on it.”Herbert, a three-time Grand Prix winner who raced in F1 between 1989 and 2000, argued: “It doesn’t help the situation for Red Bull who have the best driver in the world at the present time.”And they’re very close to pushing [Max Verstappen] out off the team, I’ve heard they are getting quite close with the deal with Mercedes.read more on christian horner”It seems like a stupid thing to do, their biggest asset is not the Christian Horner show.”He added that it would be “crazy” for the F1 chief to stay due to his “arrogance”.The embattled Red Bull boss strongly denies all the allegations and was cleared of misconduct by an internal probe on February 28.However, only 24 hours later a string of sexually suggestive texts between Horner and his female accuser were leaked – re-igniting the scandal.Most read in MotorsportSpeaking to us via sports betting website Betideas.com, Herbert said: “It’s the impact, the possible destroying of the team and the success they have had.”It’s not about the Christian Horner show, it’s about the Max Verstappen show as he is the one winning all these races and championships for Red Bull.”The veteran driver – who is a long-term friend and former teammate of Michael Schumacher – believes it would be not be a wise move for Verstappen to abandon the Milton Keynes-based team.Spice Girls ‘rallying behind’ Geri Halliwell, Mel B says amid sexting scandal plaguing F1 boss husband Christian HornerHebert said: “It would be crazy for Max to leave because of the situation…Jos [Verstappen] has said it will be very destructive and rip it apart and I think it’s gone on for far too long.”In some respects, Christian should really think about it and step aside.”What started as Horner’s personal controversy has morphed into an power struggle within Red Bull in recent weeks.On Sunday, sources alleged that Horner has agreed to a “public ceasefire” with senior management after emergency crunch talks.But the internal battles at the sports top constructor are set to end after Horner, Jos Verstappen and Helmut Marko seemingly agreed to stop their disputes, The Mirror reported.Verstappen Sr, 52, had been publicly backing the suspended female employee and called for Horner to be axed, accusing him of ripping the team apart.When asked if it was time to “draw a line” under the situation, as Horner insisted people do, Jos said: “I think it’s a bit too late for that now.”If that’s what he wants, fine, but I don’t think it will be possible.”As Hebert alluded to, there are rumblings in the Vertsappen camp that the reigning world champ could quit Red Bull in the foreseeable future.Meanwhile, Helmut Marko, the team’s iconic senior adviser, has reportedly distanced himself from Horner since the allegations came to light.The 80-year-old was even placed under investigation by Red Bull over issues related to the leaking of WhatsApp messages from an anonymous email relating to the Horner investigation.But now the trio have now agreed to halt their squabbling for the benefit of the team as insiders feel the pre-season distractions are taking their toll.Verstappen has been vocal in his admiration for mentor Marko and is thought to be loyal to him and his former racing driver dad no matter what.It means that if Red Bull chooses to punish or abandon either man it could tear Red Bull apart by sparking Verstappen’s exit.Despite the six-week saga, Horner has been putting forward a consistent business-as-usual front in his £8million-a-year role.Herbert celebrates a podium finish with Michael Schumacher in 1995Credit: GettySCANDAL… LAP BY LAP

    FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
    FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
    FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
    FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
    FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
    FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
    FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
    FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
    MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
    MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
    MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job. He denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
    MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
    MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.
    MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared.
    MAR 16: The female employee lodges a complaint against Horner with the FIA.
    MAR 17: Horner reportedly agrees to ‘public ceasefire’ with senior Red Bull Racing management to quell the drama

    Verstappen and Marko are seen as close pals meaning if one of them leaves Red Bull they both could leaving the team in chaosJos Verstappen has been publicly calling for Horner to be axedThe latestIt comes as the woman who accused Horner of inappropriate behaviour has now lodged a complaint against him with the sport’s ruling body the FIA.The unnamed woman, who has been suspended from her job at the team’s base in Milton Keynes, has now made three complaints over Horner’s conduct since the start of February, it is claimed.On March 7, the woman was suspended on full pay from Red Bull HQ amid claims her “honesty was called into question.”The reasons allegedly given to her were that she appeared dishonest owing to inconsistencies in the evidence she had provided.At the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, the F1 chief and his Ginger Spice wife Geri, 51, put on a united – if awkward – display.Despite Geri’s very visual display of standing by her man, sources claim that the singer is “in turmoil”.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpeaking at the press conference, Horner said he was keen to “draw a line” under the scandal and that it was time to “focus on what is going on on track.”The F1 season returns this week in Melbourne for the Australian GP and the off-track drama has done little to slow down the dominating Verstappen, who has both past races easily.Marko, Verstappen and Horner celebrate their win in JeddahCredit: GettyGeri Halliwell is standing by her man and put on a united front in Saudi ArabiaCredit: AFPVerstappen is said to be considering moving to Mercedes due to the ongoing drama engulfing his teamCredit: AFP More

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    Christian Horner ‘agrees to a public ceasefire’ during emergency ‘crunch talks’ at Red Bull after sexting scandal

    CHRISTIAN Horner has agreed to a ‘public ceasefire’ within his troubled Red Bull Racing team after emergency crunch talks, reports suggest.Horner, 50, has faced constant grillings over the sexting scandal with even senior members of the Red Bull team reportedly calling for him to leave his role in wake of the bombshell leaks.Red Bull chief Christian Horner has agreed to a ‘public ceasefire’ with himself, Helmut Marko and Jos Verstappen, say reportsCredit: GettyMarko has reportedly distanced himself from Horner since the allegations came to lightCredit: GettyHorner and Jos Verstappen have been in a very public spat in recent weeks with Jos calling for him to be axed from his jobCredit: GettyThe trio have reportedly agreed to a ‘public ceasefire’ for the sake of the Red Bull teamCredit: GettyBut it is now believed that the internal battles at the sports top constructor is set to end after Horner, Jos Verstappen and Helmut Marko seemingly agreed to stop their disputes, The Mirror reports.Jos, the father of three time world champion Max Verstappen, has spoken publicly about his concerns over the shock claims.The 52-year-old has backed Horner’s accuser in front of the media and called for £8million-a-year Horner to be axed, accusing the boss of ripping the team apart.When asked if it was time to “draw a line” under the situation, as Horner insisted people do, Jos said: “I think it’s a bit too late for that now.read more in horner”If that’s what he wants, fine, but I don’t think it will be possible.”As Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s iconic senior advisor, has also reportedly distanced himself from Horner since the allegations came to light.The 80-year-old was even placed under investigation by Red Bull for issues related to the leaking of WhatsApp messages from an anonymous email relating to the Horner investigation.But now the trio have agreed to a “public ceasefire” say reports.Most read in MotorsportThe ceasefire is being done for the benefit as the team as many feel the pre-season distractions could soon take their toll.Despite the issues, Red Bull have taken two race wins and two second place finishes in the first pair of races this year – once again dominating F1.F1’s Christian Horner says ‘time to draw a line’ on claims of inappropriate behaviour Crunch talks took place within Red Bull, say sources, as they looked to reach a happy place within the team – void of public spats.Max Verstappen has been open of his admiration for Marko and is thought to be loyal to the advisor and his dad no matter what.Meaning if Red Bull punish or abandon either man it could lead to Verstappen’s exit – causing major issues at Red Bull. Horner was cleared of misconduct towards a female colleague – allegations he had always denied – by an internal probe on February 28.THE LATESTIt comes as the woman who accused Horner of inappropriate behaviour has now lodged a complaint against him with the sport’s ruling body the FIA.The unnamed woman, who has been suspended from her job at the team’s base in Milton Keynes, has now made three complaints over Horner’s conduct since the start of February, it is claimed.On March 7, the woman was suspended on full pay from Red Bull HQ amid claims her “honesty was called into question.”The reasons allegedly given to her were that she appeared dishonest owing to inconsistencies in the evidence she had provided.Ex-driver Horner has said he wants to move on from the scandal, with ex-Spice Girl wife Geri Halliwell. 51, standing by him.The F1 chief and Geri have always put on a united – if awkward – front at the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grand Prix in recent weeks.Speaking at the press conference, Horner said he was keen to “draw a line” under the scandal and that it was time to “focus on what is going on on track.”READ MORE SUN STORIESDespite Geri’s very visual display of standing by her man, sources claim that the singer is “in turmoil”.The F1 season returns next week in Melbourne for the Australian GP and the off-track drama has done little to slow down the dominating Verstappen, who has won both races with ease.SCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
    FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
    FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
    FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
    FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
    FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
    FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
    FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
    FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
    MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
    MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
    MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job.
    But he denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
    MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
    MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.
    MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared.
    MAR 17: Horner, Helmut Marko and Jos Verstappen agree to a ‘public ceasefire’.

    Verstappen and Marko are seen as close pals meaning if one of them leaves Red Bull they both could leaving the team in chaosCredit: GettyHorner’s wife Geri Halliwell has stood by her man throughout the bombshell claims and leaksCredit: PAThe crunch talks were around keeping Red Bull focused on the track so they can win the 2024/25 drivers championshipCredit: GettyHorner’s accuser has filed an official complaint with the FIA after she was suspended from Red BullCredit: EPA More

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    Christian Horner accuser ‘angry and upset’ she was ‘never shown full sext probe dossier which cleared him of wrongdoing’

    THE woman who accused Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour has lodged a complaint against him with the sport’s ruling body.A team probe this month saw the allegations dismissed.It was revealed today the woman who accused Christian Horner filed a grievance with FIA and its ethics committeeCredit: GettyFormer Spice Girl wife Geri, left, is standing by Horner, rightCredit: GettyBut it was revealed today the woman, who has been suspended from her job at the team’s base in Milton Keynes, filed a grievance with the FIA and its ethics committee. It is the third complaint to the FIA over Horner’s conduct since the start of February, it is claimed. It is unclear if it will now launch its own probe.Its boss, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, held an hour-long private meeting with Horner during the Bahrain GP last month. READ MORE ON CHRISTIAN HORNEREx-driver Horner has said he wants to move on from the scandal, with ex-Spice Girl wife Geri Halliwell standing by him.The accuser is appealing Red Bull’s ruling that backs Horner.A source said: “She has not been allowed to see the whole of the report which cleared Horner and has no clarity as to why the inquiry reached its decision.“A timetable for her appeal process is being drawn up.”Most read in MotorsportHorner’s spokesman said he had not seen the complete dossier either.Red Bull said it was unaware of the complaint to the FIA.Geri Halliwell breaks cover to stand by her scandal-hit husband Christian Horner at F1 as couple rocked by sext storm More

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    Christian Horner accuser ‘appeals Red Bull probe & hires lawyer’ after F1 boss cleared by his team in ‘sext’ storm

    THE female staffer who accused Red Bull chief Christian Horner of controlling behaviour has allegedly launched an appeal against the probe that saw him cleared.The unnamed woman at the centre of the “sexting” storm was suspended last week and is said to be disappointed by how the racing team dealt with the scandal.The female employee has reportedly launched an appeal against the internal probe that cleared Christian Horner of misconductCredit: GettyThe staffer has since been suspended and is said to be upset by Red Bull’s decisionCredit: GettyHorner and Geri put on a united front at the Saudi Arabia GP last weekendHorner, 50, was cleared of misconduct towards a female colleague – allegations he had always denied – by an internal probe on February 28.However, she is now understood to have new legal representation and has appealed the decision of the investigation, according to The Times.On March 7, the woman was suspended on full pay from Red Bull HQ amid claims her “honesty was called into question.”The reasons allegedly given to her were that she appeared dishonest owing to inconsistencies in the evidence she had provided.read more on christian hornerRed Bull Racing have been approached for comment.On Thursday, a friend of the unnamed staffer told MailOnline: “She is so disappointed with how it’s all gone, especially as she did everything by the book.”She raised her concerns in private and did everything right, but she feels very let down by the company.”They added: “The lack of support is noted and she’s just so disappointed with the treatment from her employer.”Most read in MotorsportInsiders said she had demanded to continue working among 1,400 employees at the top F1 team’s high tech HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks.It comes after former F1 driver Christijan Albers warned a “lot more will surface” as he noted the under pressure Red Bull boss has a “terrifying amount of power” at the all-conquering team.Speaking to the Dutch outlet De Telegraaf he said it was “terrifying” Horner holds so much control despite the bombshell allegations against him.Albers said: “Because by the way it’s all being picked up and it’s just being waved away, then you make someone on the other side extra angry. I think a lot more will surface. “Then, still, [Horner has] this drive and envy to still be able to get that number one position and just chop everyone’s head off.”Spice Girls ‘rallying behind’ Geri Halliwell, Mel B says amid sexting scandal plaguing F1 boss husband Christian HornerMeanwhile, Max Verstappen’s dad Jos, 52, has backed the suspended female employee and called for Horner to be axed, accusing him of ripping the team apart.There are rumblings in the Vertsappen camp that the reigning world champ could quit Red Bull in the foreseeable future.Despite the ongoing saga, Horner has been putting forward a consistent business-as-usual front in his £8million-a-year role.The F1 chief and his Spice Girl wife Geri, 51, put on a united – if awkward – front last weekend at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix.Speaking at the press conference, Horner said he was keen to “draw a line” under the scandal and that it was time to “focus on what is going on on track.”READ MORE SUN STORIESDespite Geri’s very visual display of standing by her man, sources claim that the singer is “in turmoil”.The F1 season returns next week in Melbourne for the Australian GP and the off-track drama has done little to slow down the dominating Verstappen, who has won both races easily.SCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
    FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
    FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
    FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
    FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
    FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
    FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
    FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
    FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
    MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
    MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
    MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job. He denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
    MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
    MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.
    MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared.

    Jos Verstappen has called for Horner to be sacked amid the ongoing scandalCredit: GettyThe off-track drama has not deterred the dominance of three-time world champion VerstappenCredit: GettyHorner has been operating on a business-as-usual basis throughout the scandalCredit: Getty More

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    ‘Disappointed’ Christian Horner sexts accuser ‘feels let down’ by Red Bull team after her shock suspension over scandal

    CHRISTIAN Horner’s accuser says she ‘feels let down’ by the Red Bull team after the F1 chief was cleared by an independent investigation. The woman at the centre of the sexting storm who was suspended by the Milton Keynes-based company last week is said to be left disappointed by how Red Bull has dealt with the scandal.Horner and Geri put on a united front in Saudi Arabia over the weekendCredit: RexHorner has been cleared by an independent investigationCredit: RexThe Spice Girl has been standing by her husband throughout the dramaCredit: The Mega AgencyThe F1 chief was cleared of accusations of controlling behaviour but the following day a dossier of text messages allegedly between Horner and the female staffer was leaked.The woman was suspended from Red Bull Racing HQ amid claims her “honesty was called into question.”A friend of the staffer, told MailOnline: “She is so disappointed with how it’s all gone, especially as she did everything by the book.”She raised her concerns in private and did everything right, but she feels very let down by the company.READ MORE ON HORNER”They have suspended her when she followed the proper process diligently and correctly.”But for all that, she was suspended from the job she loves and from a sport that she is highly regarded in.”The lack of support is noted and she’s just so disappointed with the treatment from her employer.”Look at what happened. She complained there was a supposedly transparent, independent investigation, Horner was cleared, and she was then suspended.”Most read in MotorsportThe staffer’s friend continued by casting doubt on Red Bull’s investigation adding: “Questions need to be asked of the Red Bull investigation, transparency would bring confidence in what is happening to her.”Who at Red Bull was tasked with establishing the facts? Who at Red Bull had access to all the confidential material that was used?”Who at Red Bull is making all these decisions and who at Red Bull is making efforts to establish the source of these leaks?”She just can’t get over the fact that she made a complaint and was suspended – all she wants is transparency in the process.”They added that the staffer has had lots of supporting messages from friends and family and even though she has been inundated with offers to share her side of the story, she has chosen to remain silent for the time being.The comment comes amid claims the employee is reportedly preparing to appeal.An F1 source told the outlet the way the sext storm has been handled will “discourage other women, who may have had similar issues in F1 from coming forward.”They told the outlet: “She didn’t seek any of this and now she has been suspend and the message is quite clear, it implies to women stay quiet and don’t speak out or you will lose your job.”It comes after former F1 driver Christijan Albers has warned a “lot more will surface” as he noted the Red Bull chief has a “terrifying amount of power.”Speaking to the Dutch outlet De Telegraaf he said it was “terrifying” Horner holds so much power despite the bombshell allegations against him.He said: “Because by the way it’s all being picked up and it’s just being waved away, then you make someone on the other side extra angry. I think a lot more will surface. “Then, still, [Horner has] this drive and envy to still be able to get that number one position and just chop everyone’s head off.”Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s dad Jos has backed the woman and has called for £8million-a-year Horner to be axed, accusing him of ripping the team apart.Horner and his wife Geri put on a united front over the weekend in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia where they watched Max Verstappen claim another victory.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpeaking at the press conference the F1 chief said he was keen to “draw a line” under the scandal and that it was time to “focus on what is going on on track.”Despite seemingly standing by her man throughout the drama, Geri is said to be “in turmoil” over the sexting storm.Horner said it was time to “focus on what is going on on track”Credit: The Mega Agency More

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    Ferrari ‘want to poach key Red Bull staff for Hamilton’s arrival’ as they take advantage of Horner sexting scandal

    FERRARI are looking to capitalise on Red Bull’s scandal surrounding Christian Horner by poaching some of their key staff members, according to reports.Red Bull have been rocked by a sexting scandal involving team principal Christian Horner.The scandal surrounding Christian Horner is engulfing Red BullCredit: RexFerrari are eyeing up Red Bull staff members as they prepare to welcome Lewis Hamilton next nextCredit: RexThe Brit, 50, who is married to Spice Girls star Geri Haliwell, was cleared of any wrongdoing following claims made by a female colleague about his behaviour.But fractures within the Red Bull team are still making headlines as world champion Max Verstappen backed advisor Helmut Marko and threatened to quit amid reports Marko could be suspended by the team for allegedly leaking evidence from the investigation.It has also been reported the female colleague that made the accusations against Horner is set to appeal.Now yet more bad news seems to be engulfing the constructors champions as their main rivals look to take advantage of their predicament.READ MORE IN F1According to Gazetta dello Sport, Ferrari have “acted promptly to intensify contacts with various members” of the Red Bull team.The Italians, who will welcome seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton to the team for the 2025 season, are being linked with Red Bull’s on-track aerodynamic development officer David Morgan, head of performance Ben Waterhouse, and leader of their aerodynamic development team Alessandro Germani.They were also previously said to be interested in technical director Pierre Wache and head of aerodynamics Enrico Balbo.If chief technician Adrian Newey ever opted to leave Red Bull, it is also understood Ferrari would seek to snap him up.Most read in MotorsportCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Brit Morgan, who previously worked with Williams as a track aerodynamicist, has been with Red Bull for six years.Germani joined Red Bull 10 years ago, while Waterhouse has been working in the industry for more than two decades.Spice Girls ‘rallying behind’ Geri Halliwell, Mel B says amid sexting scandal plaguing F1 boss husband Christian HornerMeanwhile, Red Bull were forced to deny reports they were considering sacking Horner on Monday.The claims stated bosses were considering axing the team principal before the Australian Grand Prix on March 24.On the track, Red Bull have made the perfect start to the season, securing one-two finishes in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.Verstappen, seeking a fourth successive world title, has won both in dominant fashion. More