In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world, Christian Horner received an extraordinary multi-million pound settlement from Red Bull following a high-stakes internal investigation, the Daily Mail can exclusively reveal.
The Red Bull team principal, who has guided the team to unprecedented success, secured what insiders describe as a "golden handcuffs" deal worth millions after being cleared of allegations of inappropriate behaviour earlier this year.
The Power Struggle That Shook Red Bull
Behind the scenes, a fierce power struggle erupted between Horner and the Thai majority shareholders of Red Bull GmbH, creating tensions that threatened to destabilise the championship-winning team. The investigation, which began in February, saw Horner temporarily step aside from his duties while an independent barrister examined the claims against him.
Despite being cleared of all allegations, the episode exposed deep divisions within the Red Bull hierarchy. Sources close to the situation indicate that Horner's position had become increasingly precarious despite his remarkable track record of success with the team.
A Settlement That Speaks Volumes
The financial package Horner negotiated is believed to include significant performance-related bonuses and extended contractual terms, effectively securing his leadership position through the current regulatory era. Industry experts suggest the deal represents one of the largest settlements ever made to a team principal in F1 history.
"This wasn't just about money—it was about power and control," revealed one senior F1 insider. "Horner emerged from the investigation with his authority not just intact, but reinforced through financial guarantees that make him virtually unsackable in the short to medium term."
Impact on the F1 Landscape
The resolution of Horner's situation comes at a critical juncture for Red Bull, who continue to dominate the current F1 season with driver Max Verstappen. The internal turmoil had raised questions about whether the team could maintain its competitive edge amid such distractions.
With the financial settlement now confirmed, attention turns to how this will affect team dynamics and whether it will impact Red Bull's performance on track. The deal ensures stability at the helm but leaves unanswered questions about the long-term relationships within the Red Bull power structure.
As the F1 circus moves to the next Grand Prix, all eyes will be on Horner and whether this substantial financial agreement translates into continued success for the Milton Keynes-based team.
