What’s next for Red Bull F1 after Horner investigation all-clear

While the cost cap affair in 2022 was a tough period for the squad, it did not bring with it the personal turmoil and invasion that has been commonplace over the last few weeks.

The launching of an investigation into unspecified allegations made against him by a female employee thrust Horner into the centre of a media frenzy as he battled to save his career and his future in grand prix racing.

While Horner remained in his role – attending the RB20 launch earlier this month and being on the pitwall during pre-season testing last week – it was clear from his body language that matters had taken an emotional toll on him.

Far from being the ultra-confident character who often bounces around the paddock, Horner looked tired and drained as he found himself subject to an investigation that had begun more than one month ago.

While Red Bull’s statement that came on Wednesday night will allow Horner to sleep easier as focus shifts to winning the F1 season-opener in Bahrain, the questions that remain over what has taken place in recent weeks are plenty.

The rumour mill has run wild with speculation over what exactly Horner was alleged to have done. There were multiple different versions being told by paddock figures – with many of the stories contradicting each other.

Sources have strongly dismissed some of the more extreme suggestions that appeared in many publications – and lawyers may yet have a field day about some of the reporting that took place now that Horner has been cleared.

Due to restrictions involving such an internal investigation, there remains little clarity over what was and wasn’t involved – and the truth may never come out.

As the Red Bull statement said on Wednesday: “The investigation report is confidential and contains the private information of the parties and third parties who assisted in the investigation, and therefore we will not be commenting further out of respect for all concerned. Red Bull will continue striving to meet the highest workplace standards.”

Whether or not Horner will offer more details remains to be seen, for he is unlikely to say much about the situation after he walks into the Bahrain paddock on Thursday.

It is understood that Red Bull’s parent company remains eager for focus to switch to track matters and not any ongoing fallout from recent events.

But what…