The female Red Bull F1 employee who accused team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate and controlling behaviour has had her appeal denied, the team’s parent company has announced.
Red Bull GmbH has reviewed the findings of a second independent investigation into the complaint, which came to light in February and was dismissed later that month following an investigation which began in January.
Horner has always denied the accusations made against him. The employee has the option to take legal action against him and Red Bull.
The unidentified woman is still serving a suspension which began at the start of March, according to ESPN.
Red Bull statement
“Earlier this year, a complaint raised against Christian Horner was investigated,” Red Bull GmbH said in a statement.
“That complaint was dealt with through the company’s grievance procedure by the appointment of an independent KC [lawyer] who dismissed the grievance.
“The complainant exercised the right to appeal, and the appeal was carried out by another independent KC.
“All stages of the appeal process have now been concluded, with the final outcome that the appeal is not upheld.
“The KC’s conclusions have been accepted and adopted by Red Bull. The internal process has concluded.
“The company respects the privacy of all its employees and will not be making further public statements at this time. Red Bull is committed to continuing to meet the highest workplace standards.”
The day after the case was initially dismissed, a cache of messages purportedly involving Horner was leaked to the media and senior Formula One figures.
Horner has been part of Red Bull since 2005, helping win six Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ Championships.