The Red Bull F1 Racing team principal attended the launch of the RB20; business as usual. Of course many questions still remain surrounding the details around the allegations of controlling and inappropriate behavior. However, it appears the investigation is still ongoing leaving fans with many questions as to the true severity of the allegations. Christian Horner has made it clear he denies all allegations and will not step down from his post. His appearance at the Red Bull Launch is a positive sign for his future with the team. Horner answered a slue of questions but a few of the following came from the media.
Q: You are in a situation (where) the chief executive might expect to be suspended while the allegations were investigated. Why hasn’t that been the process that has been taken at Red Bull?
I think it’s been very clear. In the position of Red Bull, it has been business as normal, of course. (Investigating) the allegations is a process that Red Bull are running through, and (then confirming) that process externally, but you know, obviously there’s a job to do and I denied fully the accusations and my role obviously continues.
Q: Has it been a distraction?
Look, I think moments of uncertainty brings us together and I’ve never seen a team more together and supporting than (Red Bull) is. Everybody’s focused on one thing, which is the performance of that car to go out and defend both the world titles that we’ve worked so hard to achieve over the last couple of years. So the car is what everybody is invested in and I look forward to seeing it in action in Bahrain next week.
Q: What does the future look like? Do you see yourself still doing this job long term?
I’m absolutely committed to this team. I’ve been here since the beginning. I’ve built this team. There’s been highs and lows along the way. We have won 113 races. Won seven drivers’ world championships. We’ve won six constructors’ world championships in 19 seasons, and you know, that’s in the history books. But it’s what lies ahead – because that’s what’s important. So my focus is on the future. It’s on Red Bull Powertrains becoming a startup engine business. We have an advanced technology business system producing the first ever Red Bull track car and of course, there’s a lot going on the campus.
One thing that’s clear is Horner feels very confident that the allegations against him are a distraction. He appears to be fully cooperating and is business as usually which could be a positive for his future with Red Bull.