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      Christian Horner tried to down play sext scandal by telling wife Geri Halliwell that probe was over ‘promotion row’

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      CHRISTIAN Horner tried to down play his sext scandal by telling Geri Halliwell his probe was over a “promotion row”, it was claimed.The Spice Girl, 51, presented a united front with the under-fire F1 Red Bull boss before and after ­yesterday’s Bahrain Grand Prix.Red Bull boss Christian Horner and his wife Geri Halliwell put on a united front as the pair was rocked by Horner’s sext leakCredit: GettyGeri shared an ­awkward hug and kiss with hubby HornerCredit: PAThe pair pictured tense as they walked along the paddockCredit: GettyThe pair’s public displays of affection came as sources close to Geri revealed how Horner reportedly first described the situation as a workplace row.The Sun learned that Geri knew of the female employee at the centre of the texting scandal. A Red Bull insider said she even approved of the woman working in Horner’s team, who later visited the couple’s home.The insider said: “When Christian first told her about the situation, he said he had fallen out with a woman who wanted promotion and more responsibility in Red Bull.Read more about Geri Halliwell”So he sold it to Geri as a workplace row and she accepted that. So Geri is now fuming that there appears to be more to this.”Sources added that furious Geri “read the riot act” to Horner but put on a brave face for the cameras — to her husband’s “relief”.Ginger Spice — in high heels, a white designer dress and clutching a Hermes bag — strode hand-in-hand with her ­husband to a hospitality area ahead of the race yesterday.Horner then leaned in to plant an ­awkward kiss on his wife’s cheek while putting his arm around her back.Most read in MotorsportAfter Red Bull’s world champ Max Verstappen stormed to victory in the season opener yesterday, Geri was clasped tightly by her husband as she flashed a forced-looking smile for the cameras.Horner gushed: “It’s been the best ­possible start to the season, very clinical and well-executed. The perfect start.”Christian Horner gives defiant seven-word statment amid sext leak storm after Bahrain Grand Prix winAn F1 paddock source said: “Christian is relieved and thrilled by Geri’s show of support.”He was really happy she had flown out and was with him.”They had time to discuss everything and she must have accepted his explanations to a point to turn out to support him.”But showbiz insiders said Ginger Spice had considered the future of her nine-year marriage to Horner, father of her seven-year-old son.She will most likely bunker down in the couple’s Cotswolds country home and make her decision behind closed doors, the Daily Mail reported.One close to the singer said: “A lot of people who know her are astonished by this show of support. There is absolutely no doubt she is furious and has read him the riot act over what has happened.“There are questions about her future with him and she let him know in no uncertain terms. It’s uncertain whether their marriage will survive but she is ­giving it a good chance by showing him support, at least in public.“But deep down she must be hurt, humiliated and very, very angry. However, this does at least show she hasn’t gone nuclear and run to the first expensive divorce lawyer she can find.”Geri’s worried pals also said she is said to have “felt like a fool” for trusting her “prince charming” husband Christian Horner after he played down sexting claims.Friends of the star reportedly stated it would “break her heart” to end things with Christian, whom she considers the “Prince Charming” she has waited for since she was a little girl.An insider said: “She acts on impulse a lot. She has a temper on her, that’s for sure, and doesn’t Christian know it.”But the question now that her inner circle is asking is whether Christian will be sent to the dog house for a few days or whether this is it for good.A source close to the pop star, who was on a Bahrain-bound private jet when the messages emerged, told The Sun Horner tried to play down the scandal.They said: “Geri is heartbroken and feels utterly humiliated. She trusted him when he tried to play down the scandal.“He always told her he’d done nothing wrong. This will really hurt Geri, who has put everything into their marriage.””She worked hard for all of this, she jumped through hoops to get him, so will she dump him?”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is understood Geri went “into meltdown” when she landed in Bahrain to discover Horner’s sext leak.Her concerned pals added she seemed “fragile” when they saw her a few weeks ago.Sources close to the Spice Girl said she is now evaluating the next steps in her marriage to HornerCredit: Instagram @therealgerihalliwellThe couple has been married for nine years and share a seven-year-old sonCredit: Instagram/gerihalliwellhornerGeri was said to have ‘felt like a fool’ for trusting her ‘prince charming’ husbandCredit: Instagram / gerihalliwellhornerHorner and Geri pose after the F1 Grand Prix of Italy at Autodromo di Monza in 2014Credit: Getty More

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      Max Verstappen’s glam Wag shows off incredible toned abs in leather boots as she swerves Christian Horner drama in Paris

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      MAX VERSTAPPEN’S glamorous partner Kelly Piquet swerved the Christian Horner controversy as she visited Paris last night.Verstappen started this season in Bahrain as he had finished the first, with a crushing victory.Kelly Piquet wore an all black outfitCredit: Instagram kellypiquetAs she partied in ParisCredit: Instagram kellypiquetShe started dating Max Verstappen in 2020Credit: instagram @kellypiquetShe often stuns with her glamorous outfitsCredit: instagram @kellypiquetThe Dutchman won the race by a whopping 22 seconds, with team-mate Sergio Perez finishing in second.But his girlfriend, Kelly, opted to avoid the controversy surrounding Red Bull by partying in Paris instead.She posted a set of three photos to her Instagram from the exclusive Raffles hotel in Paris.Kelly opted for a black crop top with a black skirt and knee length black leather boots in the photo dump.READ MORE ON F1Kelly is a model that has appeared in the likes of Vogue, she is the daughter of F1 legend Nelson Piquet.She boasts 1.4million followers on Instagram who were all too happy to comment on her latest look.One fan wrote: “Stunning ! 😍”A second fan commented: “Beautiful, as always. Happy couple with @maxverstappen1 ❤️❤️”Most read in MotorsportShe is a successful modelCredit: instagram @kellypiquetAnd has appeared in VogueCredit: Instagram @kellypiquetShe is often seen in the paddock with MaxCredit: GettyBut she swerved this week’s raceCredit: GettyA third fan posted: “STUNNING AS USUAL ❤️❤️”While a fourth said: “Such a queen.”Verstappen breaks silence on Christian Horner ‘sexting’ probe as pressure mounts on Red Bull 3 weeks after shock claimsKelly’s swerve of Bahrain comes as her potential future father-in-law, Jos Verstappen, denied being the person behind the “leaked texts” that have rocked Red Bull team principal Horner.She has modelled for several top companiesCredit: GettyAnd is the daughter of F1 legend NelsonCredit: GettyShe often posts updates on her holidays on InstagramCredit: instagram @kellypiquetShe’s a regular on the red carpetCredit: Getty More

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      Max Verstappen could be forced to LEAVE Red Bull after dad’s explosive row with Christian Horner & sext scandal

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      MAX Verstappen could be forced to turn to Mercedes after the in-fighting at Red Bull turned toxic.The F1 world champion was dragged into the explosive row that went nuclear after his father, Jos Verstappen, called for Christian Horner’s head.Max Verstappen is in the middle of a toxic row between his dad and his team principalCredit: GettyMax pictured with dad Jos Verstappen, 51, at the Bahrain Grand PrixCredit: GettyRed Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner talks with Jos in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of Saturday’s raceCredit: GettyIt threatens to rip Red Bull apart as Max Verstappen has to choose between his dad or the boss of his team.And paddock sources believe Jos Verstappen’s friendship with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff could see the F1 star jump ship and take the seat left vacant by Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton.Verstappen Snr blew his top – and his cover – after his bombshell comments about the Red Bull chief following a turbulent few days here in Bahrain.The Dutchman said Red Bull Racing will “explode” if Horner remains team principal.Read more on Max VerstappenHe said: “There is tension here while he remains in position.”The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is.”It will explode.”He is playing the victim, when he is causing the problems.”Most read in MotorsportHorner was cleared of inappropriate behaviour following an internal investigation after a complaint was raised by a female colleague.However, 24 hours later an anonymous email leaked damning WhatsApp messages claiming to be evidence that formed part of the report.Verstappen breaks silence on Christian Horner ‘sexting’ probe as pressure mounts on Red Bull 3 weeks after shock claimsHorner would not comment on the images, whose release now seem to be targeted as an orchestrated smear campaign looking to destroy him.He has not mentioned if they are real or fabricated, either.It is not known whether Verstappen Snr has any knowledge of the alleged plot to force Horner out, but their friendship is now in tatters.Horner was given a clear show of support at the Bahrain GP as he was joined by his wife Geri Halliwell.They chatted with Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken, the Dutch billionaire businesswoman who owns 25 percent of the second-largest brewer in the world bearing her surname, making her the richest person in the Netherlands.Heineken are just one of the many team partners but the fact of her position within Verstappen’s home country had not gone unnoticed.Perhaps the most significant level of business support came from Chalerm Yoovidhya, the Thai co-owner of Red Bull, who before the race posed with Horner for photographs in front of Max Verstappen’s car.The reason why Verstappen Snr allegedly planted himself at the centre of the controversy remains unknown.Paddock rumours suggest the two have been at loggerheads for months.Jos, a former team-mate of Michael Schumacher, reportedly had a blazing row in Horner’s paddock office after the qualifying race on Friday night.He is said to have left the office before returning to shake the Red Bull principal’s hand, the Mail reported.When asked if he was involved behind Horner’s sext leak, Jos strongly denied the claims, saying: “That wouldn’t make sense.”Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?”The Sun alleged on Saturday how a mole inside the Red Bull camp had detonated the emailed file to F1 personnel, which claimed to be evidence from the private hearing into a complaint.Horner, 50, had always denied the allegations and was cleared by Red Bull to continue in his role on Wednesday after the employee’s claim for grievance was dismissed.The email file dump – known as Google Drive To Survive in the paddock – turned that on its head with Horner defiant he is staying put.Verstappen responded after his son’s win in the opening race of the season saying: “There is tension here while he remains in position.The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode.”A former F1 driver himself, he achieved two podiums in 106 races.However, he has also been the subject of some scrutiny.After an incident in 1998 at a karting track where another man suffered a fractured skull, he avoided a suspended jail sentence after agreeing an out-of-court settlement with the victim.Ten years later, he appeared in court, charged with assaulting his wife, Sophie Kumpen.He was found not guilty of assault, but guilty of threatening Kumpen in text messages and of violating a previously issued restraining order.He was fined and sentenced to three months probational, suspended prison sentence.And in January 2012, he was arrested following accusations that he drove a car into his ex-girlfriend but was released two weeks later after the charge was withdrawn.He has overseen his son’s career like a hawk and now, with a wedge drive between himself and Horner, it leaves Max Verstappen in an awkward position.The 26-year-old looks to have a straight choice of picking one side of the other.Should he choose his father – and Red Bull stick by their decision to keep Horner – it only points one way.And that is an early exit from his contract with Red Bull.Added weight is given to the rumour that Jos Verstappen met with Wolff in Bahrain and that Mercedes are investing heavily in their engine division to ensure they have the best power unit for the 2026 season.For that season, Red Bull Racing will launch a new partnership with Ford with many believing the Silver Arrows will have a clear advantage.READ MORE SUN STORIESOn Saturday night after Verstappen’s victory, Wolff was asked about the prospect of whether he would be driving for his team in 2025.Wolff said: “A driver will always choose the quickest car, that is fundamentally what it is all about.”Max celebrates his GP victory in Bahrain alongside Horner and the Oracle Red Bull Racing teamCredit: GettyHorner and Verstappen hug each other in celebration on Saturday nightCredit: Getty More

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      Max Verstappen’s dad forced to DENY leaking Christian Horner sexts in Red Bull civil war after explosive row in Bahrain

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      MAX Verstappen’s dad denied being behind Christian Horner’s sext leak after the pair’s explosive paddock row at the Bahrain Grand Prix.Jos Verstappen, 51, also made bombshell comments just as Horner and wife Geri Halliwell put up a strong and united front on Saturday.Jos Verstappen (right) pictured with his son Max as they arrive at the Bahrain Grand Prix on SaturdayCredit: GettyWorld champion Max brought the first GP home to Red Bull in a great start for the 2024 F1 seasonCredit: GettyRed Bull boss Christian Horner and his wife Geri Halliwell put on a united front as the pair was rocked by Horner’s sext leakCredit: GettyHorner embraces his wife Geri as he talks to Red Bull key shareholder Chalerm YoovidhyaCredit: SplashJos, a former team-mate of Michael Schumacher, reportedly had a blazing row in Horner’s paddock office after the qualifying race on Friday night.He is said to have left the office before returning to shake the Red Bull principal’s hand, the Mail reported.When asked if he was involved behind Horner’s sext leak, Jos strongly denied the claims, saying: “That wouldn’t make sense.”Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?”Read more on Christian hornerVerstappen Snr previously said Red Bull Racing will “explode” if Horner remains team principal.He said: “There is tension here while he remains in position.”The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is. “It will explode.Most read in Motorsport”He is playing the victim, when he is causing the problems.”Christian Horner gives defiant seven-word statment amid sext leak storm after Bahrain Grand Prix winAnd now Max Verstappen could be forced to turn into Mercedes after his dad’s explosive row with Christian Horner.It threatens to rip Red Bull apart as Max has to choose between his father or the boss of his team.And paddock sources believe Jos Verstappen’s friendship with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff could see the F1 star jump ship and take the seat left vacant by Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton.Wolff also stoked fires over Horner’s scandal, calling for more transparency as the F1 must “set their compass right”.Wolff questioned Red Bull Racing’s handling of the probe and sext scandal and called on the FIA to act on it, the Mail reported.That includes FIA president Mohammad ben Sulayem and F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, who were both among the 149 recipients of Horner’s sext messages.Speaking after Saturday’s Bahrain Grand Prix, Toto said: “Let’s see where it goes in the next few days.”I would very much hope that the governing body and the commercial rights’ holder set the compass right.”But the moment I continue to question how this has been handled, I am probably not doing any good to the whole issue, because then it could be seen as this just being about a power fight within F1.”That’s why it should not be in the team’s [Red Bull’s] hands.The Mercedes boss added: “It’s a much bigger topic than that and I don’t want to diminish the whole situation by making it seem like the Mercedes guy is talking about the Red Bull guys.”Jos Verstappen, former team-mate of Michael Schumacher, said Red Bull Racing will ‘explode’ if Horner remains as team principalCredit: GettyMercedes team boss Toto Wolff is calling the FIA to take matters into their own handsCredit: GettyHorner and his colleague Dr Helmut Marko at a Grand PrixCredit: GettyThe scandal surrounding Christian Horner comes amid long-term tensions at Red Bull Racing.Rumours of an unrelated power struggle 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 in 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, reports the Telegraph.The former professional driver has overseen the Red Bull driver development programme since 2005 and was a driving force in bringing Max Verstappen to the team.But speculation was played down, with Horner only acknowledging there had been a “small difference of opinion” between himself and Marko.He even suggested rumours may have been fanned by opponents, adding: “As we’ve tied up both championships, there’s not a lot to be talking about, so it’s very easy for others to wind the situation up.”But Marko hinted at an internal wrangle when he commented: “I have a contract until the end of 2024 and in the end it’s the shareholders’ decision, not Christian Horner’s, and in the end it’s me who decides.”Formula 1 reporter Erik van Haren said the power struggle appears to be coming to a “climax now”.He told De Telegraaf: “[Horner and Marko] become more and more like water and fire.”Although, of course, in the publicity they pretend that nothing is wrong.”Horner is, of course, the team principal and the CEO of Red Bull Racing. More than a thousand people work there. Super important for the operational side of the whole story.”However, it is of course known to all Formula 1 connoisseurs that Helmut Marko, the Austrian, pulls the big picture. So he decides who sits in those seats.”And yes, Horner might be the guy who would like to do that too, but Helmut is the guy who makes the big decisions.”So if you were to ask Max Verstappen, the most important man in that team, with a knife to your throat, if you had to choose between Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, you would always choose Helmut.”Horner was appointed Team Principal of Red Bull’s F1 team in 2005, and has bagged 13 world titles along the way.It comes asOn Saturday, Geri Halliwell shared an ­awkward hug and a cringey kiss with hubby Christian Horner amid the sexts leak.The Spice Girl, 51, presented a united front with the under-fire F1 Red Bull boss before and after ­yesterday’s Bahrain Grand Prix.She had landed in the Middle East on Thursday night, as a torrent of sexually suggestive WhatsApp messages and ­pictures between Horner, 50, and a female employee began to circulate worldwide.Sources said furious Geri “read the riot act” to him but put on a brave face for the cameras — to her husband’s “relief”.Ginger Spice — in high heels, a white designer dress and clutching a Hermes bag — strode hand-in-hand with her ­husband to a hospitality area ahead of the race yesterday.Horner then leaned in to plant an ­awkward kiss on his wife’s cheek while putting his arm around her back.After Red Bull’s world champ Max Verstappen stormed to victory in the season opener yesterday, Geri was clasped tightly by her husband as she flashed a forced-looking smile for the cameras.Horner gushed: “It’s been the best ­possible start to the season, very clinical and well-executed. The perfect start.”The public displays of affection came as showbiz sources said Geri had considered the future of her nine-year marriage to Horner, father of her seven-year-old son.One close to the singer said: “A lot of people who know her are astonished by this show of support. There is absolutely no doubt she is furious and has read him the riot act over what has happened.”Meanwhile, Horner took to Instagram to express his gratitude to the Red Bull Racing team.He hailed the “perfect start to the season” after his team won at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Saturday.Boss Horner congratulated driver Max Verstappen following his win.The victory was secured despite the build up to the race being dominated by one topic – the internal investigation into Horner surrounding claims of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague.In a post on Saturday night, Horner thanked his “hard working team” and their support.He wrote: “What a weekend. The perfect start to the season.READ MORE SUN STORIES”A big thank you to all the hard working team back in Milton Keynes for all their work over the winter to produce another great and very competitive car.”To our stakeholders, illustrious partners and everyone here in Bahrain, thank you for your unending support and commitment to get us off to the best possible start.”Pictures showed Geri Horner and her husband sharing an intimate moment before the opening race of the seasonCredit: GettyHorner and Geri seen holding hands yesterday at the Bahrain GPCredit: GettyThe couple was seen together and smiling at the Bahrain Grand PrixHorner and Geri pictured together after the race smilingCredit: PAA 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 More

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      Meet Christian Horner’s boss and Red Bull owner worth nearly 27 times more than Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo combined

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      ALLEGED “leaked texts” have put Christian Horner’s position as Team Principal of Red Bull into doubt – but he does still have the support of the most powerful man at Red Bull.The British boss was cleared of wrongdoing by his team’s internal investigation on Wednesday, but less than 24 hours later was hit by a dossier of texts being leaked to journalists and F1 team principals.Chalerm Yoovidhya and wife Daranee, were pictured alongside Christian and Geri HornerCredit: GettyIt’s a clear indication that Red Bull’s most important man is standing by his team principalCredit: AFPThe investigation into Horner, relating to accusations of “inappropriate behaviour” began in February, and has seen his previously untouchable position at Red Bull put into doubt.Crucially for Horner, though, he has the support of majority Red Bull shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya, 73.The Thai businessman is estimated by Forbes to have a net worth of £26.8billion.That’s almost 27 times the net worth of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, thought to be worth nearly £1bn between them.READ MORE ON CHRISTIAN HORNERYoovidhya inherited much of his wealth when his father, Chaleo died in 2012 – although he was involved in running the Red Bull conglomerate before that.He owns 51 per cent of the Red Bull company and has the power of veto on shareholder decisions, making him a very important ally for Horner to have.Although not a great deal is known about the Thai businessman’s personal life, he lives in Bangkok and has three children – all potential heirs in the Red Bull dynasty.According to the Daily Mail, he is thought to be incredibly loyal to Horner, and has put down any attempts from within the team to get rid of him.Most read in MotorsportThe businessman has been pictured with both Christian and Geri Horner several times and is thought to have a good personal relationship with the couple.A power vacuum has been present at Red Bull since the death of Dietrich Mateschtiz who passed away in 2022.Motor racing world in ‘disbelief’ at Christian Horner alleged leaked messagesMateschitz founded Red Bull alongside Chaleo Yoovidhya in 1984 in a joint Austrian and Thai venture.Dietrich’s death saw his son Mark, 31, inherit his 49 per cent of shares and while Dietrich was an avid supporter of Horner, Mark is not thought to be.He is allegedly joined in the power struggle against Horner by Oliver Mintzlaff, who oversees Red Bull’s other sporting operations as well as F1, Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen’s father Jos, according to The Mail.They claim that Mark, along with the Austrian faction of Red Bull wanted Horner to be dispatched “quickly” while the investigation was still ongoing.But the support of Chalern Yoovidhya and the Thai branch of Red Bull has seen Horner remain as Red Bull’s team principal. More

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      Max Verstappen easily wins Bahrain Grand Prix as Red Bull 1-2 gives under-fire Christian Horner something to smile about

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      MAX VERSTAPPEN started his F1 title defence with a crushing victory in the Bahrain Grand Prix.The 26-year-old crossed the line with a whopping 22 seconds lead over his team-mate Sergio Perez.The new season got underway in BahrainCredit: RexMax Verstappen carried his dominance into the new seasonCredit: GettyThe win gave Chistian Horner something to smile aboutCredit: APHe was congratulated by his Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who beamed for the first time in a while after being dogged by controversy.The build up to this race had been dominated by one topic – the internal investigation into Horner surrounding claims of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague.But he was given the green light to continue in his role after the grievance was dismissed by an independent report only to be plunged into a meltdown when an anonymous email claimed to have leaked contents of WhatsApp exchanges.Horner, who had denied the allegations, would only comment to say that he would not respond to “anonymous speculation”.READ MORE IN F1There had also been more tension with rumours of a simmering feud with Verstappen’s father Jos, potentially driving a wedge between his star driver and Horner.But there was a clear show of support for Horner, who had arrived at the track in Bahrain early.He had remained in his office in the Red Bull hospitality unit until going to the paddock gates to greet his wife Geri Halliwell around 4:15pm.She was wearing an elegant cream dress and they strode through the paddock holding hands as the snappers got their shots before sharing a kiss.Most read in MotorsportThis was a message that shouted loud and clear that their relationship had not been damaged by the anonymous leak.They chatted with Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken, the Dutch billionaire businesswoman who owns 25 per cent of the second-largest brewer in the world bearing her surname, making her the richest person in the Netherlands.Inside Christian Horner’s 4-week fight for his career from 8hr grilling to Geri Halliwell’s agony…& why saga may go on Heineken are just one of the many team partners but perhaps the most significant level of business support came from Chalerm Yoovidhya, the Thai co-owner of Red Bull.He has been in Horner’s corner for a number of years and owns the controlling 51 per cent of the energy drink firm founded by his father.The remaining 49 per cent once owned by Austrian tycoon Dietrich Mateschitz now belongs to his son, Mark.Yoovidhya and his wife had a photo in front of Verstappen’s car on the grid and stood either side of Horner.Before the race, there was still some trepidation that a second salvo of WhatsApp files would drop in yet another anonymous email.The previous day, there had been rumours of the same but they never materialised.Once the grid cleared and we finally got the 2024 season underway it quickly became apparent that Verstappen remained in a class of his own.He thundered away from the lights at a rate that was nearly a second a lap quicker than his rivals.By the 10th lap, he’d stretched his advantage to eight seconds and by the time he made his pitstop on lap 18 it was a terrifying lead of 30.4 seconds.He stopped for tyres and started making his lead back up again. It was impressive and demoralising in equal measure.Last year, Verstappen had been unstoppable, winning 19 of 22 races.There had been some hope based on pre-season testing that Ferrari and even Mercedes, would offer him more of a fight.But on this evidence, it looks all too easy as he coasted to victory ahead of his Perez in second place.As the TV camera cut to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, his gloomy face told a familiar story now for the Silver Arrows.George Russell, who started in third place, finished in fifth. Lewis Hamilton meanwhile was seventh with McLaren’s British driver Lando Norris ahead of him.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe rest of the grid have their work cut out if they are to stop the Dutchman from making it four titles on the spin.It was a one-two finish for Red Bull and Verstappen, who had started on pole, also set the fastest lap to earn himself a bonus point.Horner and wife Geri shared a kissCredit: PA More

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      ‘Emotional’ Geri Halliwell on ‘denial mission’ as she ‘puts on PR performance’ alongside ‘awkward’ Christian Horner

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      GERI Halliwell is on a “denial mission” and today put on a PR performance, a body language expert claims.The Spice Girl, 51, was seen for the first time this afternoon – walking hand-in-hand with husband Christian Horner at the Bahrain Grand Pix.Geri Halliwell and Christian Horner put on a ‘PR performance’ today, a body language expert claimsCredit: GettyExpert Judi James says the couple were trying to show a ‘bond’Credit: PAThe Spice Girl was said to be forcing a ‘carefree smile’Credit: GettyWhile Christian appeared ‘awkward’, an expert saysCredit: APThe expert said the couple appeared to be on a ‘denial mission’Credit: GettyHer presence came as a surprise after ‘sexts’ allegedly sent by Horner were leaked while she was jetting to the Middle East to stand by his side. But with Horner’s hand on her back, Geri beamed as she greeted the mob of photographers awaiting her arrival. She could be seen smiling up at her husband, before apparently candidly chatting to him at the trackside. But the couple’s apparent solidarity was not sincere, a body language expert claims. Read more on motorsportJudi James said Horner appeared “awkward”, while Geri was wearing a smile that looked forced – in an attempt to seem carefree. Yesterday afternoon the content of WhatsApp messages allegedly sent by the Red Bull Racing boss were leaked. In one, Horner allegedly asked a woman for a “Santa PJ selfie” and regularly joked about Spanx – telling the woman she looks “attractive” in them.The body language expert said Geri and Horner today were trying to send “a message of denial and bonded resilience”. Most read in MotorsportShe said the ex-Spice Girl was wearing a smile as though she was “posing for a cataloge shoot”. Judi told The Sun: “That in turn suggests she’s putting in some emotional effort to try to look carefree and natural.Motor racing world in ‘disbelief’ at Christian Horner alleged leaked messages”Her smile looks performed and that outward flick of her right hand and lower arm hint at inner tension causing rigidity.” The expert said their body language, with their hands pulled closer to Geri’s body, suggested this was a PR performance of “loyalty and togetherness”. “The way she grasps Christian’s hand suggests she’s being the decisive one here,” Judi added. “It looks as though she has taken over control here and decided to show a message of togetherness to the world.” It comes asShe said this made it appear as though Geri was on a “denial mission”. Judi added that Horner looked “awkward” with one hand in his pocket, suggesting a “desire to hide”. She continued: “He doesn’t meet Geri’s eye contact when she throws a pinging beam at him as though trying to prompt him to return a loving smile.” The Spice Girl went for her signature white outfit, which she is known for wearing at F1 races.It comes after Geri was said to have “felt like a fool” for trusting her “prince charming” husband after he played down sexting claims.A source close to the pop star, who was on a Bahrain-bound private jet when the messages emerged, told The Sun Horner tried to play down the scandal.Geri is heartbroken and feels utterly humiliated.They said: “Geri is heartbroken and feels utterly humiliated. She trusted him when he tried to play down the scandal.“He always told her he’d done nothing wrong. This will really hurt Geri, who has put everything into their marriage. “She worked hard for all of this, she jumped through hoops to get him, so will she dump him?”READ MORE SUN STORIESEarlier today, a smiling Horner appeared to have shrugged off his sext scandal as he arrived alone at the Bahrain Grand Prix.The racing chief previously refused to comment on the leaked WhatsApp sexts, which were sent anonymously to F1 bosses and media outlets on Thursday.Geri was seen for the first time since messages allegedly sent by her husband were leakedCredit: PAThe couple walked hand-in-hand in front of the camerasCredit: PA More

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      F1 Bahrain Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS: Verstappen LEADS from pole amid chief Horner’s sext scandal – latest updates

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      THE Formula 1 season is kicking off with the Bahrain Grand Prix today.Defending champion Max Verstappen is starting from pole after topping qualifying for an opener which has been marred by Red Bull chief Christian Horner’s alleged sext scandal which has rocked the sport.The team principal has again denied allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague after being cleared following an internal investigation on Wednesday before messages claiming to be from him were leaked.
      Start time: 3pm GMT
      TV channel/ live stream: Sky Sports F1 and Sky Sports Main Event
      Lap 17/57 – Verstappen leads, Perez second
      Everyone has pitted now apart from Verstappen who now leads the race by 31.3 seconds.
      Russell is in third, Leclerc in fourth place just ahead of his teammate in fifth.
      Norris sits in sixth ahead of Piastri in seventh.
      Copy linkCopiedLap 15/57 – Verstappen leads, Alonso second
      Sergio Perez is on fire today.
      Another great move as he takes George Russell to move into sixth place.
      The Red Bull driver has Albon in his sights now.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedLap 13/57 – Verstappen leads, Sainz second
      As ever, pit stops change the complexion of the race.
      Verstappen now has a 11.9 second lead over Sainz in second.
      Alonso is now in third, with Tsunoda in fourth.
      Copy linkCopiedLap 11/57 – Verstappen leads, Russell second
      Verstappen now has a 7.2 second lead in the race.
      Alonso was struggling to hold off the Mercedes of Hamilton and drops to ninth place.
      It looks like Logan Sargeant may be our first retirement of the race.
      He surprises all as he returns to the track which will prevent the need for any safety cards.
      The two Ferraris almost have a coming together as Sainz moves up into fourth spot.
      Copy linkCopiedLap 9/57 – Verstappen leads, Russell second
      This is not a good start to the race for Charles Leclerc.
      Sergio Perez is the next driver to take the Ferrari.
      Leclerc is now in fourth place with Perez in third.
      The Ferrari driver has locked-up three times already in the race, on this occasion giving the Red Bull the chance to capitalise.
      Copy linkCopiedLap 7/57 – Verstappen leads, Russell second
      It is business as usual for the Red Bull of Max Verstappen.
      He has opened up a 4.6 second lead over the Mercedes of Russell.
      Norris is now in sixth, closely followed by teammate Piastri.
      Copy linkCopiedLap 5/57 – Verstappen leads, Russell second
      Russell is 2.1 seconds behind Verstappen in first place.
      His main concern at the moment is holding of the Ferrari of Leclerc.
      The stewards had a look at that earlier incident between Stroll and Hulkenberg and have cleared it.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedLap 3/57 – Verstappen leads, Russell second
      Hulkenberg heads into the pits and had a chancge of tyres.
      All 20 drivers started this race on soft tyres today.
      The front of the grid looks, as we started, with the exception of Hulkenberg who is at the back of the field now.
      That is all change as the Mercedes of Russell makes a move to take the Ferrari at the corner.
      Copy linkCopiedLap 1/57 – Verstappen leads, Leclerc second
      Max Verstappen makes a great start to the Grand Prix.
      Charles Leclerc had to back off a bit at the first turn.
      Lance Stroll and Nico Hulkenberg had some contact at the first corner and the latter seems to have some front wing damage.
      Copy linkCopiedLights out in Bahrain Grand Prix
      Copy linkCopiedFormation lap begins
      Copy linkCopiedReminder of F1 grid for race
      Here is how the drivers will line-up this afternoon in Bahrain.
      Credit: @F1
      Copy linkCopiedBahrain Grand Prix race odds
      As you would imagine, Max Verstappen remains the heavy favourite for every race he enters.
      Max Verstappen – 2/13
      Charles Leclerc – 9/1
      Sergio Perez, George Russell – 20/1
      Carlos Sainz – 25/1
      Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton – 40/1
      Lando Norris – 50/1
      Oscar Piastri – 66/1
      All race odds brought to you by Grosvenor Sport.
      Copy linkCopiedChanges for 2024 race season
      DRS is s huge part of Formula One nowadays but there will be a change for this season.
      Drivers will first be able to access it – provided they are within one second of the car in front at the respective detection point – on the second lap of the race instead of the third as before. 
      What sort of impact that will have, only time will tell.
      Copy linkCopiedContracts up for grabs this year
      As we head into the new race season, we have quite a strange situation when it comes to the drivers.
      More than half of this year’s grid, 13 drivers, have not yet confirmed contracts for next season.
      It will make for an intriguing campaign, with some big announcements expected as drivers edge towards the end of their existing contracts.
      Copy linkCopiedExciting F1 season lies ahead
      Not that anticipation for the new campaign needs much more hype but we will also see the return of the Chinese Grand Prix this year.
      It will be the first time since 2019 that the Shanghai International Circuit will feature in the race season.
      Prior to the concerns due to the pandemic, it had been a regular feature in the calendar for fifteen consecutive years from 2004-2019.
      Copy linkCopiedSight of things to come
      As the drivers ponder tactics prior to the race, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc share some thoughts.
      With this being Hamilton’s last season with Mercedes, the pair will soon be teammates at Ferrari.
      Mercedes will hope that he can go out on a high for them this campaign, which would be the perfect swansong for their partnership.
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedSo close to perfect start in qualifying
      Ferrari almost made the perfect start to the season as Charles Leclerc seemed tohave pipped Max Verstappen to pole position.
      However, opting to go onto soft tyres for Q3 cost them as the defending world champion put in a performance to seal the front place on the grid.
      Ferrari’s drivers sit in second and fourth on the grid and will be looking to make a positive start to the season.

      Copy linkCopiedMercedes hoping to challenge this season
      George Russell has spoke about his team’s plans for the season.
      “Everyone at the factory have done an amazing job to give Lewis and I a car we feel much happier with and a base we can build upon.
      “Obviously Max is right out there in front, we’ve still got some catching up to do but when we look at our qualifying performance over the last two years and our race pace, starting P3 in Bahrain is a great place.”
      Copy linkCopiedStars head to F1 opener in Bahrain
      Yuki Tsunoda meets Neymar in the pits as preparation continues.
      There is no other sport like F1 to attract the world’s biggest star to the track.
      The anticipation is building as we head towards lights out in the Bahrain Grand Prix.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedPutting on a brave front
      Amid all the media attention, Geri Halliwell is treating everything as ‘business as usual’ in Bahrain.
      A regular attender at the races, the former Spice Girl is showing support for her man this weekend.
      Red Bull will be hoping for another dominant season this term, expecting more from Sergio Perez in support of Max Verstappen.
      Credit: AP
      Copy linkCopiedAlpine struggling with change in qualifying
      After finishing sixth in the constructors’ championship last season, Alpine made changes to their car to try and bridge the gap.
      Sadly, it seems these changes have had the adverse effect in qualifying.
      Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly up line up 19th and 20th respectively for the season-opener.
      Copy linkCopiedHow the drivers line-up in season opener
      Here is today’s grid positions for the Bahrain Grand Prix:
      Credit: @F1
      Copy linkCopiedMax focussed on driving not scandal
      The reigning world champion has spoken about the revelations about Christian Horner have affected the team:
      From my side, and I think what I can see also from the mechanics and the engineers, we are fully focused on the car and the performance here during the weekend. And that’s how it should be, I think, and that’s what we continue to do, because it’s not our business. We’re not particularly involved in that. And we are here, we are paid to do our job, and that’s what we are doing and that’s also what we love doing. So that’s what we focus on.Max VerstappenRed Bull
      Copy linkCopiedSeason start could not come sooner
      One thing is for sure that Red Bull will be glad to see the start of the season.
      With the spotlight directly on the constructor with the bombshells about Christian Horner, they will be hoping that Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez can divert attentions this afternoon.
      While Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing, the text messages have been leaked into the public arena with his partner Geri Halliwell said to be ‘devastated’ by the nature of the content.

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