Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton claims the outcome of the Christian Horner investigation is an opportunity for Formula One to “stand true to our values”.
Red Bull team principal Horner has been accused of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague – an allegation he strenuously denies – with a team probe ongoing and a verdict expected before Saturday’s opening race of the new season in Bahrain.
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Seven-time world champion Hamilton said today: “We always have to do more to try to make the sport and the environment that people get to work in feel safe and inclusive.
“Any allegations have to be taken very seriously.
“Obviously, we don’t know everything that has gone on but it does need to be resolved as it’s hanging over the sport.
“It will be really interesting to see how it’s dealt with moving forward in terms of the effect it may or may not have on the sport.
“I think it is a really important moment for the sport to make sure we stand true to our values.”
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the defending world champion, refused to discuss the case specifically but did say: “I am trusting the process that is happening right now. Besides that, when you talk about performance, it is important everyone stays together.”
Asked if the issue was affecting his performance on the track, the Dutchman added: “It doesn’t. I’m very focused on just the performance of the car and myself.
“It’s a whole team effort that everyone has to stick together and work to more success, so that’s why it’s important to get everything resolved.”
