Formula 1 amplify pressure on Red Bull investigation over Christian Horner allegations

The investigation into damning allegations levelled against Christian Horner continues with the Formula 1 hoping for a swift resolution.

Pressure is being amplified on the investigation into Christian Horner. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

The pressure on Red Bull is being ramped up with Formula 1 hoping for the investigation into Christian Horner to be wrapped up at the “earliest opportunity”.

Horner was initially thought to have been under investigation for alleged controlling behaviour after a female employee lodged an official complaint last year.

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But a Dutch newspaper revealed messages sent by the Red Bull boss to a female employee, which are at the heart of the probe, were “sexually orientated”.

De Telegraaf also claimed Horner’s lawyers tried to settle the case with a payment of $1.25m – and that senior Red Bull management were aware of his offer.

The 50-year-old has denied the allegations, with the Formula 1 confirming on Monday morning (AEDT) he had been interviewed by an external specialist barrister regarding the investigation.

“We have noted Red Bull has instigated an independent investigation into internal allegations at Red Bull Racing,” Formula 1 said in a statement.

“We hope matter will be clarified at earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process. Will not comment further at this time.”

The F1 want the investigation wrapped up early. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Horner publicly addressed the allegations against him for the first time at the launch of the RB20 this week.

“Inevitably there has been a distraction, but the team are very together,” he said.

“Everybody’s focused on the season ahead, so it’s been very much business as normal and the support has been fantastic.

“In situations like these, you see where the strengths are, and it’s been overwhelming the support that I’ve had from within the team.

“The drivers have been incredibly good, the partners, it’s been incredible.

“There have been some allegations made, which I fully deny, so that the investigation is very much going on in the background whilst preparing for the season ahead, and hopefully it will be concluded in the near future.”

Geri is being supported by her former bandmates. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

News of the allegation allegedly left Horner’s wife, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, in a flood of tears with support coming from her former bandmates.

Mel B, Mel C, Emma Bunton and Victoria Beckham are rallying around Geri as the investigation drags on.

“They are quietly supporting her behind the scenes and checking in to make sure she is OK,” a source said.

“Geri has been left ­broken by the ordeal, but is grateful for the kindness being shown to her by friends.”