But just hours after that decision was confirmed, messages reportedly sent by Horner were leaked to the media. The appeal process is currently ongoing, with the complainant also said to be prepared to go to an employment tribunal.
The employee has remained anonymous and is unable to talk about her claims, having signed a legal agreement not to discuss the matter publicly. However, in a candid interview with BBC Sport, a friend of the female, who has remained anonymous, has voiced concerns on the impact that the ordeal is having on her.
“It’s impossible for people to understand what it’s like for her,” said the friend. “She can’t talk and she won’t talk. But I can tell you what it is doing to her. Every time I have asked her something, she breaks down in tears and says she’s got no-one to talk to because she’s not allowed to talk.
“She is very upset, very angry, very scared, very intimidated, very lonely. And I think it’s impossible for people to understand without being in her shoes what it’s like for her. She is determined for the truth to come out.”
Red Bull have duly confirmed that neither part involved can comment on the details of the investigation or the subsequent appeal, with a spokesman previously saying: “Both signed a confidentiality agreement on it so they both can’t discuss it.”
However, should the case go all the way to an employment tribunal, it will potentially allow private details to come out into the open. And the complainant is said to be determined to return to work in F1, having been in motorsport her “entire life.”
Despite not being allowed to comment on the case himself, it has been business as usual for Horner who continued in his team role throughout the investigation. This was deemed unfair by the accuser’s friend, who argued that Horner, 50, had used his profile to influence perception during the investigation.
“It’s pretty clear she has not been able to say a word or even identify herself,” they said. “And yet Christian is able to give enough commentary because he has got a position of power and influence to effectively give his side of the story and she has been completely muted.”
Red Bull have been contacted by Express F1 for comment.
