Crisis talks as Horner in jeopardy once again
FORMULA ONE
CHRISTIAN HORNER took part in crisis talks with the F1 chief and FIA president yesterday with his position under threat.
The saga surrounding his Red Bull future continues to rage on after alleged messages and photos were leaked on Thursday.
During the final free practice session at Bahrain yesterday, Horner was seen emerging from the Red Bull garage with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
The team principal then met with F1 chief Stefano Domenicali later in the day.
The nature of these talks is unknown but Horner was also spotted embracing Ben Suleyem.
The investigation into misconduct allegations closed on Wednesday. But this twist poses a new threat to Horner’s position.
Mercedes’ Toto Wolff and Zak Brown of McLaren have reiterated calls for transparency over the process. Red Bull have refused to share the report, labelling it as “confidential”.
But if the FIA launch a probe, the International Sporting Code could force Red Bull’s hand.
Under Article 12.2.1g, “any failure to co-operate in an investigation” would be deemed an offence.
Meanwhile, Mercedes’ qualifying times in Bahrain have convinced Lewis Hamilton this season may not be a one-horse race.
Reigning champion Max Verstappen secured pole position for Red Bull but the times were close, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc just 0.228 seconds behind.
Mercedes’ George Russell starts third, with Hamilton ninth – just 0.225 seconds behind his team-mate.
Hamilton said: “It’s amazing to have a car we can fight with. It really unites the fire and flame within us drivers.”