Red Bull F1 Boss Cleared in Misconduct Appeal as Team Faces Turbulent Season

Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner has been cleared of inappropriate behaviour accusations after an appeal by a suspended employee was dismissed. An independent King's Counsel conducted the appeal. The team has faced turbulence with key personnel exits and rumors about Max Verstappen's future.

Red Bull Formula One team boss Christian Horner has successfully been cleared of inappropriate behaviour claims after a suspended employee's appeal was dismissed, the energy drink giant announced on Thursday.

An unidentified employee, suspended in March, had appealed the initial dismissal of her complaint. Horner, whose team leads both championships, had denied the accusations.

An independent King's Counsel carried out the appeal. 'All stages of the appeal process have now been concluded, with the final outcome that the appeal is not upheld,' stated Red Bull. Horner, married to Spice Girls' Geri Halliwell, faced intense media attention when the story broke in February.

The team has experienced disruptions this season, with the exit of key figures like designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley. Speculation also surrounds the future of triple world champion Max Verstappen, courted by Mercedes amid his father Jos' public criticism of Horner.

(With inputs from agencies.)