Christian Horner Complainant Returns to Work in Formula 1

Horner Complainant Returns to Work in Formula 1 After Suspension

The woman who made allegations of sexual harassment and controlling behaviour against former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has resumed her role within Formula 1, according to reports confirmed on Thursday.

Although her identity remains confidential, the complainant had not been working since she was suspended by Red Bull Racing in March 2024, amid a high-profile investigation into her accusations.

She is now back working within the Formula 1 paddock, although neither she nor her current employer has issued a public comment on the matter.

Timeline of the Horner Allegations

In December 2023, the woman lodged a formal complaint with Red Bull, accusing Horner of sexual harassment and coercive, controlling behaviour.

The allegations were dismissed following an internal investigation by Red Bull, the findings of which were made public on the eve of the 2024 Formula 1 season.

Just a day after Red Bull cleared Horner, a series of WhatsApp messages, allegedly involving the team boss, were leaked anonymously to several senior F1 personnel and members of the media.

While Horner refused to verify the authenticity of the messages, describing them as “anonymous, speculative messages from an unknown source”, the timing reignited scrutiny around the team and the handling of the internal investigation.

Second Appeal and Investigation

Following the initial investigation, the woman filed an appeal, which prompted a second internal review. However, the second investigation also ruled in favour of Horner, clearing him once again of any wrongdoing.

Despite being cleared twice, the controversy placed Horner under immense pressure, especially as Red Bull faced on-track struggles, internal management tensions, and uncertainty surrounding the future of Max Verstappen.

Horner Sacked, Verstappen Commits

In July 2025, Christian Horner was officially dismissed from his role as Red Bull team principal. Although Red Bull did not provide an official reason, many believe it was due to a combination of sporting decline and ongoing off-track controversy.

Shortly after, Max Verstappen—whose future had been uncertain amid interest from Mercedes—publicly confirmed he would remain with Red Bull through the 2026 season.

Meanwhile, Horner is now said to be in negotiations with Red Bull over the terms of his termination settlement.

No Official Response

Both Horner and Red Bull Racing have declined to comment on the latest developments. The woman’s return to work in Formula 1 signals a notable shift in the ongoing saga, even as the paddock remains divided over the long-term impact of the controversy.