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      Christian Horner was right to call out Max Verstappen in Red Bull feud – but defiant words could come back to bite him

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      IT has been a turbulent and questionable time for under pressure Red Bull boss Christian Horner, but his decision to call out Max Verstappen was the right way to go.The rumblings in the Verstappen camp is that the reigning world champion could quit Red Bull in the foreseeable future.The troubled saga at Red Bull, including the situation between world champ Max Verstappen and team boss Christian Horner, could get messierCredit: APVarious explanations have been offered, one being they are unhappy with Horner following the messy internal investigation.Another is their loyalty to 80-year-old Helmut Marko, who has seen his position as Red Bull’s motorsport advisor diminished by Horner’s over-reaching title as team boss and CEO of Red Bull Racing.Another suggestion doing the rounds in the paddock – and not from the Verstappens – centres on money.It is reported that Verstappen earns around £43million a year from Red Bull Racing.READ MORE TOP STORIESHe also has a win bonus structure that is capped at a certain number of race wins.His contract, which runs until 2028, already makes him the highest paid driver in F1, but his earning potential has a ceiling.Whatever the reason for the discontent, Horner is at least sure that no individual is bigger than the team, including himself.He has told Verstappen that if he doesn’t want to be part of the team, he can walk, presumably joining Mercedes, whose team boss Toto Wolff said he’d do handstands if he signed the world champ.Most read in MotorsportIt is difficult to see why Verstappen would want to quit Red Bull.They have built him a car that has been unstoppable and he looks set to win the title again this season.Mercedes meanwhile have built a succession of duds and even Lewis Hamilton has put his loyalty to one side to jump ship to Ferrari.Christian Horner lifestyleLast week, in these pages I urged Max Verstappen to stand up for himself and make his own choice.But he made it clear at the Saudi Arabian GP he would not be without either his dad or manager, Raymond Vermeulen, by his side.Horner’s bullish words could now come back to bite him and the Verstappen camp will be even more determined to push through a switch to Mercedes.Only Bear pits himself wellOLIVER BEARMAN’s performance in Saudi Arabia masked what was another dull race.The 18-year-old from Essex defied expectations to finish seventh after being called up as an 11th hour replacement for Carlos Sainz, who had emergency surgery to remove his appendix.British teen Oliver Bearman was a rare beacon in a dull GPCredit: RexBearman’s heroics were great to watch – unlike the rest of the race.The optimists keep pointing out that the rest of the pack, once you’ve taken Verstappen and Sergio Perez out of the equation, is quite tight.And that much is true. There was indeed a tight battle between the cars running in 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th – all for zero points.F1 has a problem with all of this success for Verstappen as it has all become too predictable.It goes against the essence of American sports where it is about unpredictability.I fear that as his winning streak continues, which it will do, it could hit the TV viewers in the US that F1’s owners have tried to attract.Ferrari Los will be someone else’s gainCARLOS SAINZ checked himself out of hospital so he could make Saturday’s race – despite undergoing surgery hours earlier.The Spanish driver is a real team player.He will be let go by Ferrari at the end of this year to make way for Lewis Hamilton, and was clearly in pain and moving very gingerly as he walked in the paddock.But he still showed up for work to help out young Bearman, his replacement.Few other drivers in F1 would have done the same.No JoshingBRAVEST man of the week was the security guard who would not allow Anthony Joshua to join Sky F1’s pre-race coverage.Fresh from his win over Francis Ngannou, AJ was stopped from walking over a roped-off section and not allowed to speak to host Simon Lazenby until a producer intervened.It was soon all smiles for Anthony Joshua at the Jeddah Corniche CircuitCredit: GettyBag of tricksMOTOGP champion Francesco Bagnaia won the Qatar GP to get his season off to a flying start.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn an ominous warning he also said his Ducati was able to “go faster”.The two-time MotoGP champion led every lap as he got the better of Brad Binder and Jorge Martin. More

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      Red Bull forced to respond to bombshell claim team owners are ‘considering FIRING Christian Horner’ over sexting scandal

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      RED BULL Racing has been forced to respond to shocking claims that they’ve changed tactics and are considering firing Christian Horner.Reports over the weekend said shareholders were looking at axing the Formula One boss after his embarrassing sexting scandal.Christian and Geri at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix over the weekendReports have surfaced that Horner, who earns £8million a year, could lose his jobTensions within the Red Bull team have been strained in recent weeksWhat started as Horner’s personal controversy has morphed into a power struggle within Red Bull in recent weeks.Outlets including Bild and F1-Insider reported yesterday that Red Bull’s major Thai shareholder could have changed his mind about keeping Horner on.Erik van Haren, the journalist who broke the story, reported that a spokesperson for the racing camp was forced to respond and quell rumours of a firing following the bombshell claims.They said: “As Christian has said, he is grateful for the full support of the shareholders and that remains the case.”READ MORE CHRISTIAN HORNERThe shareholder in question, Chalerm Yoodivhya, has been an ally to Horner, 50, through weeks of embarrassing revelations after allegations made by a female colleague.But the Thai businessman, who owns a whopping 51% of Red Bull, met with partners on Sunday to potentially discuss next steps, the Telegraph reports.And F1 Insider said that other high-profile Red Bull names including Mark Mateschitz and Oliver Mintzlaff are set to look at his future before the Australian Grand Prix on March 24.While Horner was cleared of the colleague’s initial accusations of controlling behaviour on February 28 – the company turmoil did not end there.Most read in MotorsportJust 24 hours later a dossier of the father-of-two’s embarrassing and seedy text messages were leaked.The intimate messages raised questions about Red Bull’s international investigation and put the spotlight firmly on wife Geri Halliwell’s appearance in Bahrain days later.While the couple put on a public – if awkward – display of support for the F1 opener, reports suggest things behind the scenes are rocky.The former Spice Girl, 51, reportedly laid down the law for his behaviour moving forwards and demanded he cut off contact with the woman.She was later suspended from Red Bull.Tensions within the team itself have also been steadily increasing for weeks.The biggest rift so far has sprung up between Horner and his star driver – Max Verstappen’s – father Jos.Jos, 52, has backed Horner’s accuser and has called for £8million-a-year Horner to be axed, accusing the boss of ripping the team apart.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.

      A source told The Sun said over the weekend: “Christian’s enemies are making it clear they will not give up.“But he and Geri are staying strong and will face them down.”Christian will be back at work at Red Bull’s HQ first thing on Monday to get on with the business of running his team and winning races.”And on Saturday at the Saudi races, Horner hugged and shared a joke with Red Bull’s CEO Franz Watzlawick on the grid before the race as both parties tried to draw a line under their recent spat.READ MORE SUN STORIESEven Helmut Marko, the outspoken Austrian who works as Red Bull’s motorsport advisor and who had clearly aligned himself with Horner’s rival, Jos Verstappen, appealed for calm – just 24 hours after hinting he could be suspended.Horner has saluted his “phenomenally supportive” wife but insisted it was time to “draw a line” under the scandal.Max Verstappen with his dad Jos – who has called for Horner to be firedHorner with Red Bull’s CEO Franz WatzlawickGeri Horner – former Spice Girl – holding her and Christian’s son Monty More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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      Cheeky Toto Wolff offers Marko Helmut a job amid fears he could be forced out of Red Bull after Christian Horner scandal

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      TOTO WOLFF has joked that Helmut Marko could play a role at Mercedes.It comes after reports suggested Marko could be forced out of his role as a Red Bull advisor.Toto Wolff has joked Mercedes could sign Hemlut Marko if he leaves Red BullCredit: GettyRed Bull have placed Helmut Marko under investigationCredit: GettyIt is said to come in relation to messages leaked regarding to the Christian Horner scandalCredit: GettyThe 80-year-old has been placed under investigation by Red Bull and will hold a meeting with Austrian team’s chief Oliver Mintzlaff in Saudi Arabia today.This enquiry is said to be related to the leaking of WhatsApp messages from an anonymous email claiming to be evidence of the internal report relating to the Christian Horner investigation.Marko, an ex-Formula One and winner of the 1971 24 Hours of Le Mans, told Austrian broadcaster ORF: “It’s difficult to judge, or let’s put it this way, ultimately, I’ll decide for myself what I do. “The theoretical possibility [of suspension] always exists. It’s such a complex issue. Again, we want peace in the team. READ MORE IN F1″This world championship will be difficult enough with 24 races and we have to concentrate on that.”Amid the exit rumours, Wolff cheekily commented before the Saudi GP: “Marko could take the old place of Niki Lauda at Mercedes.”We are missing our old mascot anyway. Then we’ll just take Helmut! He fits in terms of age. He doesn’t have a red cap, but he can come to us.”Helmut is not a child of sadness and was – or is – our favourite enemy. But he is a real racer. If Helmut leaves, it is certainly a loss for Red Bull and for the team.”Most read in MotorsportCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Marko’s future at Red Bull is set to be intertwined with Max Verstappen, who unequivocablly backed the Austrian.The three-time F1 champion told reporters: “I am loyal to Helmut. He is a big and important part in my decision making and important he stays within the team including everyone else.Greatest F1 track on Earth’ created featuring iconic parts from Silverstone, Spa and Suzuka”It is important we keep people together because if an important pillar falls away, that is not good for my career as well.”So for me, Helmut has to stay. He has built this team with [Red Bull co-founder] Dietrich Mateschitz from day one and been loyal.”You need to give the man respect for what he has done and that  comes back to loyalty and integrity and is important to why he stays part of the team.”A BBC Sport report claims a Red Bull source told them the plan was to suspend Marko, though a spokesperson later said: “That’s news to us.”Marko’s removal from his role would in theory allow Verstappen to break his £43million-a-year deal with Red Bull, paving a way for him to potentially join Mercedes as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement in 2025.Marko’s future at Red Bull is linked to Max Verstappen’sCredit: GettyHe won an internal power struggle with Horner last year when he was awarded a new contract despite a dispute with the team principle.Horner, 50, was cleared after an internal report dismissed a claim from a female employee.SunSport revealed earlier this week that the employee who raised the initial complaint had been suspended on full pay.It triggered a fallout between Verstappen’s father Jos, who said Horner remaining at the team would cause it to “explode”.A fresh attack from Verstappen Snr saw him say it was “too late” for Horner to draw a line under the sexting scandal which had engulfed F1.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe 52-year-old told the Mail: “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.”Verstappen claimed pole in Jeddah by more than three tenths of a second and is looking to make it back-to-back wins to start the 2024 F1 season.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁  More

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      Max Verstappen could take Lewis Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes in shake-up as Red Bull row threatens to blow team apart

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      MAX VERSTAPPEN could quit Red Bull and seal a shock move to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes.There is set to be a huge shake-up on the grid at the end of the year with the seven-time world champion joining Ferrari. Max Verstappen could leave Red Bull amid suggestions Helmut Marko may departCredit: GettyThere will be a space at Mercedes with Lewis Hamilton going to FerrariCredit: GettyVerstappen still has five years to run on his £43million-a-year contract at Red Bull – but he could depart with the team in crisis.The Dutchman is fuming over suggestions that Helmut Marko could be suspended amid the fallout from the Christian Horner investigation.Marko, who is a team adviser at Red Bull, will meet chief Oliver Mintzlaff at Saturday’s Saudi Grand Prix.Should he leave, there are rumours it will upset Verstappen and potentially even trigger a break clause in his contract.READ MORE IN F1It could, therefore, pave the way for him to fill the space left by Hamilton at Mercedes.Verstappen has already been angered by Marko’s possible departure, saying: “I am loyal to Helmut. “He is a big and important part in my decision making and important he stays within the team including everyone else.”It is important we keep people together because if an important pillar falls away, that is not good for my career as well.Most read in Motorsport”So for me, Helmut has to stay. He has built this team with [Red Bull co-founder] Dietrich Mateschitz from day one and been loyal.”You need to give the man respect for what he has done and that  comes back to loyalty and integrity and is important to why he stays part of the team.”Watch moment Christian Horner & Max Verstappen’s dad Jos have ‘heated’ exchange as team ‘torn apart’ by sext rowMeanwhile, chiefs at Red Bull’s HQ continue to wade through the mess after Horner was cleared of inappropriate behaviour after allegations from a female employee.He was then subject of a smear campaign after an anonymous email leaked a series of WhatsApp conversations claiming to be evidence of the internal report.There is also an ongoing feud between Horner and Verstappen’s father Jos after the duo were involved in a heated argument at the Bahrain GP last weekend. Despite rising tensions, Horner’s wife Geri Halliwell has stood by him and she is again expected at the Grand Prix in Jeddah. More