F1 News: Red Bull Managing Director Could Replace Christian Horner If Steps Down
Insiders have hinted that Red Bull's managing director, Oliver Mintzlaff, may assume leadership of the F1 team if Christian Horner is removed following allegations of misconduct. A hearing regarding these claims is imminent, casting uncertainty over Horner's future with the team.
Key Takeaways:
- Oliver Mintzlaff is considered a potential successor to Christian Horner at Red Bull's F1 team amidst ongoing investigations.
- An external inquiry into allegations against Horner is in progress, with a pivotal hearing scheduled for this Friday.
- Red Bull's staff are faced with uncertainty about the team's leadership and structure pending the outcome of Horner's investigation.
As Christian Horner prepares for a critical hearing over allegations of inappropriate behaviour, the name of Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull's managing director, has surfaced as a possible candidate to steer the team should there be a change at the helm.
The crux of the matter lies in an external investigation launched in response to claims made against Horner, who strongly denies any misconduct.
"Red Bull staff 'remain in the dark about what exactly is happening' and 'can only speculate if the intention is to remove Horner from his position or to make a power play that leads to a senior figure from Salzburg taking a more active role in the all-conquering F1 team'," reported The Times.
This situation is further complicated by the dynamics within Red Bull's broader corporate structure, especially in the wake of Dietrich Mateschitz's passing in October 2022. Mateschitz's death is perceived to have left Horner in a vulnerable position, despite his accomplishments and the backing from the company's Thai shareholders. The relationship between Horner and the Austrian segment of Red Bull's leadership is reportedly strained, casting a shadow over his future with the team.
As the investigation proceeds, Horner is bracing for "hours of intense questioning" this Friday, a process overseen by the King's Counsel appointed by Red Bull's parent entity. This development was unexpected for Horner, who was attending a meeting of the F1 Commission in London when news of the investigation broke.
The hearing's outcome could have significant implications for Red Bull, particularly with the impending launch of their 2024 F1 car. The team is eager to resolve this issue promptly, ensuring that it can focus on the challenges of the upcoming season without the distraction of ongoing legal proceedings.