Christian Horner, the principal of the Red Bull Racing team, is due to learn the conclusion of an inquiry into alleged inappropriate behaviour in the coming days.
The 50-year-old met for many hours with an impartial arbiter, a King’s Counsel who was reportedly chosen by Horner, who is in charge of the procedure.
The results of that meeting took some time and is thought to have resulted in more than 100 pages of evidence and testimony.
Throughout the investigation, Horner has maintained his innocence and remained active in his role.
Horner appeared at Red Bull Racing’s season launch and pre-season testing last week, when he addressed the media as part of a scheduled news conference on Day 2 of the three-day race.
According to sources, a settlement to the situation is expected this week, possibly as early as today.
However, it is not expected to be communicated to the media right away.
Any decision on Horner’s future will be made by Red Bull GmbH, not Red Bull Racing, which has largely remained out of the picture as the situation has unfolded.
He has remarked that, while it was a distraction, the all-conquering operation continued as usual.
That’s despite the FIA and Formula 1 Management, as well as a number of rival team bosses, making statements about the issue.
It’s certainly taken its toll, as the Englishman appeared fatigued when speaking to the media during testing.
He was asked questions about the situation, which he avoided by indicating that it would be inappropriate to comment while the process was still ongoing.
The paddock is split on whether the outcome will result in the veteran team principal being dismissed from his position.
Horner is the sport’s longest-serving team manager, having taken over the Milton Keynes organisation when Red Bull joined as a manufacturer in 2005.
During that time, he has won seven drivers’ championships, four for Sebastian Vettel and three for Max Verstappen, as well as six constructors’ titles.
It distinguishes him as one of the most successful team leaders in Formula One history.
The 2024 Formula One season begins on Thursday, with cars hitting the track, however teams will be at the Bahrain International Circuit tomorrow for the regular pre-event media day.
