Christian Horner: Father of woman at centre of 'leaked texts' scandal reacts to Red Bull exit

The father of the woman who accused Christian Horner of 'inappropriate behaviour' has applauded the the Red Bull chief's sacking. Last year, Horner was accused and then cleared of the allegation before messages supposedly between Horner and his accuser were leaked to journalists and senior figures within the sport.

On the eve of the 2024 Formula 1 season, it became apparent that a female colleague had complained about Horner and an investigation had been launched by Red Bull's parent company. The long-serving team principal strongly denied the claims before later being cleared.

The complainant was later suspended by the team and told it was because she had been found to have been dishonest.

Now, Horner and Red Bull have parted ways, with Max Verstappen third in the World Championship race behind McLaren stars Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. The Milton Keynes-based team are fourth in the constructors' championship behind McLaren, Ferrari and Mercedes after claiming just two wins this season.

Red Bull have yet to clarify the reason for Horner's departure.

READ MORE: Christian Horner's demise attributed to tragic Red Bull moment as team boss sacked

READ MORE: Christian Horner statement issued by Red Bull sport chief Oliver Mintzlaff on shock exit

But the father of the woman at the centre of last year's scandal believes the correct decision has now taken place.

"I've read the news and the right thing has happened," he told Mail Online. "It's been all over the news and people know what took place."

He also refused to be drawn into speculation over his daughter. "You'll have to find out for yourself, I don't want to go into details but she's not involved with them (Red Bull)," he added.

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Horner has been replaced by Laurent Mekies as CEO immediately. "Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today, Wednesday 9 July 2025, and has appointed Laurent Mekies as CEO of Red Bull Racing," read a statement.

The company also confirmed: "Laurent Mekies has been promoted from Racing Bulls to replace him as CEO." The Frenchman was team principal at Red Bull's junior team, having joined from Ferrari.`'

Oliver Mintzlaff, chief of Red Bull's sporting projects, said: "We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years.

"With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1. Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history."

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