Horner remains in charge of Red Bull’s racing team, overseeing both Red Bull Technology and the Powertrains operation, which is transitioning the team into an engine supplier of its own when new regulations take effect in 2026.
In this capacity, he manages a staff of 1,700. However, since the news emerged of external legal scrutiny into allegations against Horner, which he has consistently denied, there have been murmurs of a power struggle behind the scenes.
While Horner has seemingly prevailed in this particular skirmish, insiders suggest that the larger conflict persists. Red Bull continues to navigate the aftermath of the power vacuum following the passing of co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz in October 2022. Amidst this turmoil, Horner received initial support from Red Bull co-owner Chalerm Yoovidhya, who holds a 51% stake in the team and therefore wields considerable influence.
The level of support for Horner within Red Bull Austria is uncertain. There are rumors that Mateschitz’s son, Mark, may not be in favor of Horner, despite Horner’s close relationship with his father. Additionally, Horner’s relationship with Red Bull’s influential motorsport consultant, Helmut Marko, has been historically tumultuous. Relations with Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, are also reportedly strained.
Despite efforts to project a sense of normalcy within the F1 operation in Bahrain, it appears that the mudslinging or power struggle over the F1 business may not have reached its conclusion. The F1 business has evolved into a significant entity since its inception nearly two decades ago.
For Horner, the past few weeks have been challenging from a public relations standpoint, with various rumors circulating regarding the nature of the allegations. Red Bull Austria’s decision to make the investigation public without providing further details has contributed to the uncertainty.
Horner has worked diligently to cultivate his image as one of the key figures in the Netflix series Drive to Survive, both within the paddock and at home with his wife Geri, a Spice Girl, who has steadfastly supported him throughout the ordeal. There have even been rumors that she may appear in Bahrain this weekend as a public display of support.
Interestingly, Verstappen refrained from publicly endorsing Horner when questioned yesterday. Given that he was responding before the investigation’s outcome was known, he simply remarked: “He is very important, otherwise he wouldn’t have held that position for such a long time.”
At this point, the future remains uncertain for Red Bull, despite the investigation concluding. There is apprehension surrounding the team’s numerous sponsors and partners, particularly Ford, which publicly urged Red Bull Austria to swiftly reach a decision regarding the investigation, prompting the accelerated conclusion before the upcoming grand prix weekend. Ford and other key sponsors were briefed on the findings before they were officially announced.
Whether this will be sufficient to satisfy them remains uncertain. It is conceivable that continued success for Red Bull on the track could alleviate concerns.
Red Bull demonstrated formidable dominance last season, with just one defeat. Their primary obstacle now seems to be internal.
