Christian Horner breaks his silence on being cleared of ‘coercive behaviour towards female employee’ at Red Bull as he prepares for Bahrain Grand Prix, where ‘relieved and elated’ wife Geri Halliwell could join him

Christian Horner has broken his silence after being cleared of misconduct by Red Bull Racing on Wednesday, insisting the team has “never been stronger” ahead of Saturday’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

The Red Bull boss, husband of former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, will remain in his £8million-a-year job ahead of Saturday’s premiere in Bahrain, after the Formula One team confirmed its internal investigation into allegations against Horner had been dismissed.

Red Bull began its investigation into Horner, 50, on February 5 after he was accused of “coercive behavior towards a female employee.”

Horner told Sky Sports on Thursday morning: “I’m glad the process is over, I can’t comment on that.”

“The focus is now on the Grand Prix and next season and defending our two titles.”

Asked if he felt this was the end of the matter, the Red Bull boss replied: “I can’t comment further, but the process has been carried out and concluded.” I’m happy to be here in Bahrain and looking forward to next season.

“The unity in the team has never been stronger.”

When Horner landed in the Gulf Kingdom on Wednesday, he received news that the investigation had concluded, and Red Bull GmbH in Salzburg, the parent company of the world champion team, said in a statement: “The independent investigation into the allegations made The lawsuit against Mr Horner is complete and Red Bull can confirm that the claim has been dismissed.

‘The plaintiff has the right to appeal. Red Bull is confident that the investigation has been fair, rigorous and impartial.

‘The investigation report is confidential and contains 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 those involved. “Red Bull will continue to strive to meet the highest standards in the workplace.”

The exact nature of the allegations is unknown.

Horner was questioned by a KC for a full day at a secret location last month as the lawyer gathered evidence he wrote into 150 pages for the Red Bull board’s determination over the past few days.

More to follow.