Red Bull hit with Christian Horner setback amid 'inappropriate behaviour' investigation

Red Bull Racing have been hit with a Christian Horner setback amid the ongoing investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour.

At the start of February, it was reported that Red Bull team boss Horner has been accused of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” by a female colleague.

Horner has also publicly said: “I completely deny these claims.”

Last week, it was claimed that Horner is not "expected to survive at Red Bull" following the investigation.

Now, it has been reported that Red Bull have been hit with a setback regarding the investigation.

The reigning Formula 1 champions are set to unveil their new car for the upcoming 2024 season on Thursday evening.

According to the Daily Mail, Horner is expected to be present at the event but the team originally wanted the issue dealt with before the launch.

However, it has been claimed that the investigation could carry on towards or beyond pre-season testing, which is set to be held in Bahrain next week.

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Sky Sports reporter Craig Slater said: “I think the key point to make about this is that we have to separate what’s going on with the F1 team and the F1 schedule of events, with the season drawing close and this investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour which we understand a female member of staff has made about controlling and potential coercive behaviour which Christian Horner denies.

“That will follow its own timescale and I’ve been reporting consistently that it could take some weeks and might even stretch into the Formula 1 season before that investigation is concluded and I’ve heard nothing to change that potential timescale.”

Red Bull and Max Verstappen are the overwhelming favourites to take the world title once again if a dominant 2023 season which saw the team win all but one race.

The 2024 F1 season will begin with the Bahrain Grand Prix in March.