Christian Horner: Woman to appeal against Red Bull decision to dismiss complaint

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, right, with F1 world champion Max Verstappen

The woman who made accusations about Christian Horner's behaviour is to appeal against Red Bull's decision to dismiss her complaint.

The woman, who Red Bull last week suspended from her position, accused the team principal of inappropriate and controlling behaviour.

She will ask Red Bull to reconsider their decision, which was made after an investigation conducted by a lawyer.

Horner, 50, has always denied the accusations made against him.

The accusations against Horner came to light in early February but the investigation into his behaviour had started almost a month before.

Red Bull appointed an external lawyer to investigate the claims. After his report was submitted to the company's board, it decided to dismiss the complaint.

The following day, a cache of messages purporting to involve Horner was leaked to nearly 150 senior F1 insiders and media.

Horner has said it is "time to draw a line under" the controversy amid continuing speculation about the independence of the inquiry and Red Bull's reasons for making the decision.

The complainant's decision to fight back against Red Bull's actions is a further indication that the controversy is likely to continue for some time.

If Red Bull again dismisses the woman's case, she has the option to take legal action against both Red Bull and Horner.

Red Bull has refused to give further details of the case, citing confidentiality.

BBC Sport has previously reported that the reason given by Red Bull to the employee was that she had been dishonest.

Red Bull's engine partner Honda has called for more details about the matter.

Horner said at last weekend's Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: "The reality is that there was a grievance raised, it was dealt with in the most professional manner by the group, that appointed an independent KC, one of the most reputable in the land.

"He took time to investigate all the facts. He looked at everything and he came to a conclusion where he dismissed the grievance.

"As far as I'm concerned, as far as Red Bull is concerned, we move on."

The controversy is at the centre of a power struggle inside Red Bull, involving Horner, the motorsport adviser Helmut Marko, the team's three-time world champion Max Verstappen and his father Jos and manager Raymond Vermeulen, and the two owners of the company.

Last weekend, an intervention by Max Verstappen was instrumental in keeping Marko from being dismissed.

Chalerm Yoovidhya, the 51% shareholder has backed Horner and forced 49% shareholders Red Bull Gmbh in Austria to back down in wanting to force him out.