Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said it was business as usual as a company inquiry into undisclosed allegations about his conduct hung over the&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;champions' 2024 car launch on Thursday. The Briton was as much in the spotlight as the shiny RB20 machine as he broke silence and faced the media for the first time since the emergence of accusations that threaten his future.

Taking centre stage at the Red Bull factory for a presentation celebrating the team's 20 years in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One, with seven drivers' titles and six constructors' championships, Horner suggested the future looked bright. The elephant in the room was not ignored for long, with Horner carrying out television interviews and media sessions and making clear he was still planning to be around for the long term.

"I deny the allegations, for me it's business as normal, I'm confident in that. If I wasn't, I wouldn’t be here," the 50-year-old told reporters. "I don't want to talk about the process. My focus and commitment is to the people and to the team and making sure that we're in the best shape possible for the season ahead," added the sport's longest-serving principal. "You can see that we've got a car that looks a great evolution from last year and we're going to have some very competitive rivals that are looking to beat us. My focus is very much on Bahrain next week."

Testing starts on Feb. 21 before the March 2 season-opener in Bahrain. Red Bull won all but&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the races last season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row. Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, would not discuss the allegations against him or a hearing that took place last week, and reporters were warned against asking.

Media reports have indicated the complaint related to inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature towards a female member of staff. The independent investigation was launched by Red Bull Austria, who have not disclosed where the complaint came from or what it was about. Sources have suggested the process could rumble on for some time.

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Horner, who attended a shakedown of the new car behind closed doors at Silverstone&nbsp;on Tuesday, said he was "absolutely committed" to the team. Asked whether he expected to be in Bahrain, Horner replied: "I am confident in the process and working with the process deny absolutely any allegation that's been made against me."

He said he had continued going to work as usual and felt 'overwhelming' support. "Moments of uncertainty, it brings a team together and I've never seen a team more together or more supportive than it is," said the Briton. "Everybody's focused on&nbsp;one&nbsp;thing, which is the performance of that car to go out and defend both the world titles that we've worked so hard to achieve over the last couple of years. The car is what everyone&nbsp;is invested in."

Verstappen, speaking separately to reporters, said the team spirit was better than ever and his relationship with Horner unchanged. "We've achieved a lot of things together so that doesn't change suddenly." he said.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said it was business as usual as a company inquiry into undisclosed allegations about his conduct hung over the Formula One champions' 2024 car launch on Thursday.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said it was business as usual as a company inquiry into undisclosed allegations about his conduct hung over the Formula One champions' 2024 car launch on Thursday. The Briton was as much in the spotlight as the shiny RB20 machine as he broke silence and faced the media for the first time since the emergence of accusations that threaten his future. Taking centre stage at the Red Bull factory for a presentation celebrating the team's 20 years in Formula One, with seven drivers' titles and six constructors' championships, Horner suggested the future looked bright. The elephant in the room was not ignored for long, with Horner carrying out television interviews and media sessions and making clear he was still planning to be around for the long term. "I deny the allegations, for me it's business as normal, I'm confident in that. If I wasn't, I wouldn’t be here," the 50-year-old told reporters. "I don't want to talk about the process. My focus and commitment is to the people and to the team and making sure that we're in the best shape possible for the season ahead," added the sport's longest-serving principal. "You can see that we've got a car that looks a great evolution from last year and we're going to have some very competitive rivals that are looking to beat us. My focus is very much on Bahrain next week." Testing starts on Feb. 21 before the March 2 season-opener in Bahrain. Red Bull won all but one of the races last season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row. Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, would not discuss the allegations against him or a hearing that took place last week, and reporters were warned against asking. Media reports have indicated the complaint related to inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature towards a female member of staff. The independent investigation was launched by Red Bull Austria, who have not disclosed where the complaint came from or what it was about. Sources have suggested the process could rumble on for some time. Also read: This country is extremely difficult as a woman, says India women’s hockey team coach Janneke Schopmann Horner, who attended a shakedown of the new car behind closed doors at Silverstone on Tuesday, said he was "absolutely committed" to the team. Asked whether he expected to be in Bahrain, Horner replied: "I am confident in the process and working with the process deny absolutely any allegation that's been made against me." He said he had continued going to work as usual and felt 'overwhelming' support. "Moments of uncertainty, it brings a team together and I've never seen a team more together or more supportive than it is," said the Briton. "Everybody's focused on one thing, which is the performance of that car to go out and defend both the world titles that we've worked so hard to achieve over the last couple of years. The car is what everyone is invested in." Verstappen, speaking separately to reporters, said the team spirit was better than ever and his relationship with Horner unchanged. "We've achieved a lot of things together so that doesn't change suddenly." he said.

F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations on conduct

Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and its governing body have commented for the first time on allegations against Red Bull boss Christian Horner who is fighting to save his job at the reigning world champions with testing and the start of the season looming.

Red Bull's parent company in Austria announced on Feb. 5 an independent investigation into the 50-year-old Briton's conduct after unspecified allegations against him. The process remains ongoing. Horner has denied any wrongdoing.

Formula&nbsp;One's commercial rights holder issued a short statement on Sunday in which it hoped "that the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process." The Paris-based FIA followed on Monday with a statement emphasising that it "remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and inclusivity within the sport."

Both said they would make no further comment until the outcome was known. Neither the energy drink company nor the British-based team have given details of the allegations, although media reports have spoken of inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-red-bull-team-boss-christian-horner-declares-business-as-normal-despite-allegations-691692">F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations</a>

Horner said at the launch of his team's RB20 car in Milton Keynes last Friday that he was confident and cooperating with the process and denied "absolutely any allegation that's been made against me." A Feb. 9 hearing in London with an independent barrister lasted almost eight hours, according to Sky Sports.

The Briton is due to attend testing in Bahrain this week and is scheduled to appear in a regular FIA news conference on Thursday with other team principals before the opening race at Sakhir on March 2. Should Horner be forced out of Red Bull it would come as a seismic shock for the sport.

Horner and his team celebrated the most dominant season in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;history last year, with Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races, and will start the new season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen chasing a fourth successive title. Horner is also the longest serving team boss in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005.

Formula One and its governing body have commented for the first time on allegations against Red Bull boss Christian Horner who is fighting to save his job at the reigning world champions with testing and the start of the season looming.

Formula One and its governing body have commented for the first time on allegations against Red Bull boss Christian Horner who is fighting to save his job at the reigning world champions with testing and the start of the season looming. Red Bull's parent company in Austria announced on Feb. 5 an independent investigation into the 50-year-old Briton's conduct after unspecified allegations against him. The process remains ongoing. Horner has denied any wrongdoing. Formula One's commercial rights holder issued a short statement on Sunday in which it hoped "that the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity, after a fair and thorough process." The Paris-based FIA followed on Monday with a statement emphasising that it "remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and inclusivity within the sport." Both said they would make no further comment until the outcome was known. Neither the energy drink company nor the British-based team have given details of the allegations, although media reports have spoken of inappropriate and controlling behaviour towards a female colleague. Also read: F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations Horner said at the launch of his team's RB20 car in Milton Keynes last Friday that he was confident and cooperating with the process and denied "absolutely any allegation that's been made against me." A Feb. 9 hearing in London with an independent barrister lasted almost eight hours, according to Sky Sports. The Briton is due to attend testing in Bahrain this week and is scheduled to appear in a regular FIA news conference on Thursday with other team principals before the opening race at Sakhir on March 2. Should Horner be forced out of Red Bull it would come as a seismic shock for the sport. Horner and his team celebrated the most dominant season in Formula One history last year, with Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races, and will start the new season with Dutch driver Max Verstappen chasing a fourth successive title. Horner is also the longest serving team boss in Formula One and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005.

FIA, F1 break silence on Red Bull team boss Christian Horner ahead of testing

Red Bulls’ internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour against team principal Christian Horner had no resolution in the first meeting on Friday (Feb 9). Horner, accused of inappropriate behaviour was called in for his first internal investigation in London on Friday which lasted for eight hours. Red Bull GmbH, the Austrian parent company of the F1 team has taken the allegations seriously and has launched an independent investigation into the matter.

<h2>Horner investigated for allegations</h2>

Having hired an external specialist barrister to investigate the matter, Horner was in the office for eight hours during which he was questioned on the allegations made against him. It is claimed that Horner has denied all allegations and seeks innocence in the matter. He has denied the allegations "entirely", maintains his innocence and wants to clear his name.

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The internal investigation is a hot topic of discussion considering Red Bulls are set to launch their car for the 2024 season in just six days. With the F1 pre-season testing set to take place in Bahrain on February 20, the defending champions will look to close the matter swiftly with the start of the new season not too far.

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Allegations against Horner have been deemed serious by the F1 champions as tough time awaits them in the near future. The 50-year-old British team principal is one of the most successful people in the sport having led Red Bull to seven Formula One driver’s titles while also securing six constructors' triumphs. He has been with the company since 2005 when they first entered the F1 circuit.

"After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation,” Red Bull said in a statement released on Monday confirming the investigation.

"This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister.

"The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time," they added.

Red Bulls’ internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour against team principal Christian Horner had no resolution in the first meeting on Friday (Feb 9).

Red Bulls’ internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour against team principal Christian Horner had no resolution in the first meeting on Friday (Feb 9). Horner, accused of inappropriate behaviour was called in for his first internal investigation in London on Friday which lasted for eight hours. Red Bull GmbH, the Austrian parent company of the F1 team has taken the allegations seriously and has launched an independent investigation into the matter. Horner investigated for allegations Having hired an external specialist barrister to investigate the matter, Horner was in the office for eight hours during which he was questioned on the allegations made against him. It is claimed that Horner has denied all allegations and seeks innocence in the matter. He has denied the allegations "entirely", maintains his innocence and wants to clear his name. × The internal investigation is a hot topic of discussion considering Red Bulls are set to launch their car for the 2024 season in just six days. With the F1 pre-season testing set to take place in Bahrain on February 20, the defending champions will look to close the matter swiftly with the start of the new season not too far. ALSO READ | Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail Allegations against Horner have been deemed serious by the F1 champions as tough time awaits them in the near future. The 50-year-old British team principal is one of the most successful people in the sport having led Red Bull to seven Formula One driver’s titles while also securing six constructors' triumphs. He has been with the company since 2005 when they first entered the F1 circuit. "After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation,” Red Bull said in a statement released on Monday confirming the investigation. "This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. "The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time," they added.

Formula One: No resolution reached after eight-hour investigation with Red Bull's Christian Horner

Red Bull&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;team principal Christian Horner will face a company hearing on Friday after an unspecified complaint was made against him. Sources indicated the hearing would be at the team's Milton Keynes factory. There was no official confirmation from the reigning world champions or the Austrian energy drink giant that owns the team as well as sister outfit Visa Cash App RB (previously AlphaTauri). Red Bull Racing are due to launch their new car on Feb. 15, with testing starting in Bahrain on Feb. 21 and the opening race on March 2. The team has so far made no public comment on the allegations.

The BBC said it understood the complaint related to "inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature". Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, has been quoted by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf saying he completely denies the allegations. Red Bull Austria said in a statement on Monday that they were investigating a complaint against Horner, without giving details. 
 
"After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation," it said. "This process, which is already under way, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. "It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time."

Horner, 50, and his team celebrated the most dominant season in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;history last year, with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row and Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races. The Briton is the longest-serving team boss in&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005. Under him, the team have won six constructors' championships and seven drivers' titles and are favourites for another season of domination.

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Should Horner have to stand down, the effect on the sport would be seismic. Red Bull's other main man in the paddock is Austrian motorsport consultant and former racer Helmut Marko, who is now 80-years-old, not a team employee and not believed to have any leadership ambitions. Marko has also been controversial, receiving a written warning from the sport's governing body last September after he blamed the patchy form of the team's Mexican driver Sergio Perez on his ethnicity.

There have been reports of friction between Horner and Marko since the death in October 2022 of Red Bull's Austrian co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz and the arrival of new leadership at the energy drink brand.

Red Bull Formula One team principal Christian Horner will face a company hearing on Friday after an unspecified complaint was made against him. Sources indicated the hearing would be at the team's Milton Keynes factory.

Red Bull Formula One team principal Christian Horner will face a company hearing on Friday after an unspecified complaint was made against him. Sources indicated the hearing would be at the team's Milton Keynes factory. There was no official confirmation from the reigning world champions or the Austrian energy drink giant that owns the team as well as sister outfit Visa Cash App RB (previously AlphaTauri). Red Bull Racing are due to launch their new car on Feb. 15, with testing starting in Bahrain on Feb. 21 and the opening race on March 2. The team has so far made no public comment on the allegations. The BBC said it understood the complaint related to "inappropriate behaviour of a controlling nature". Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, has been quoted by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf saying he completely denies the allegations. Red Bull Austria said in a statement on Monday that they were investigating a complaint against Horner, without giving details. "After being made aware of certain recent allegations, the company launched an independent investigation," it said. "This process, which is already under way, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister. The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible. "It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time." Horner, 50, and his team celebrated the most dominant season in Formula One history last year, with Dutch driver Max Verstappen taking his third title in a row and Red Bull winning 21 of 22 races. The Briton is the longest-serving team boss in Formula One and was by far the youngest when he led Red Bull into the sport in 2005. Under him, the team have won six constructors' championships and seven drivers' titles and are favourites for another season of domination. Also read: Rugby: Rassie Erasmus eyes World Cup history with new Springbok contract Should Horner have to stand down, the effect on the sport would be seismic. Red Bull's other main man in the paddock is Austrian motorsport consultant and former racer Helmut Marko, who is now 80-years-old, not a team employee and not believed to have any leadership ambitions. Marko has also been controversial, receiving a written warning from the sport's governing body last September after he blamed the patchy form of the team's Mexican driver Sergio Perez on his ethnicity. There have been reports of friction between Horner and Marko since the death in October 2022 of Red Bull's Austrian co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz and the arrival of new leadership at the energy drink brand.

Red Bull Formula One team principal Christian Horner set for hearing in unspecified complaint case

Daniel Ricciardo hopes to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull once the Mexican's contract ends, team boss Christian Horner said on Tuesday. The 34-year-old Australian will be starting his&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;comeback with Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri in Hungary this weekend after leaving McLaren last season and serving as Red Bull reserve. Ricciardo raced for Red Bull Racing from 2014-18, taking seven of his eight wins with the British-based team. Perez, who joined in 2021, has a contract to the end of 2024.

"He (Ricciardo) firmly wants to be pitching for that 2025 Red Bull seat. That's his goal and objective. By going to AlphaTauri I think he sees that as his best route for stating his case for 2025," Horner told&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One's F1 Nation podcast. Ricciardo has replaced under-performing Dutch rookie Nyck de Vries, who failed to score a point this year, at bottom-placed AlphaTauri with 12 of the season's 22 races remaining.

"At the moment, there's only something in place until the end of the season, so there are no thoughts or expectations beyond that," said Horner. "We've loaned him to AlphaTauri until the end of the year. Obviously, our drivers are going to be Max (Verstappen) and Checo (Perez) again next year, but it's always good to have talent in reserve."

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Red Bull have dominated the season, winning every race, but Verstappen is a hefty 99 points clear of Perez after winning eight of the 10. The Mexican's form has led to speculation that he too might not see out the full term of his contract.

Last week's axeing of De Vries was seen as particularly harsh since it came before the Dutch driver had a chance to race in his home race at Zandvoort in August but Horner said delaying the decision made no sense. He revealed also that the firing came about 11 laps into Ricciardo's impressive tyre test for Pirelli after the British Grand Prix.

"That would have meant obviously leaving him in the car until after the summer break," he said. "I think the situation was clear. It was a question of OK, what's the point in waiting? "If we've got to do something, we might as well get on with it and give Daniel 12 races to see what he's capable of."

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Daniel Ricciardo hopes to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull once the Mexican's contract ends, team boss Christian Horner said on Tuesday. The 34-year-old Australian will be starting his Formula One comeback with Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri in Hungary this weekend after leaving McLaren last season and serving as Red Bull reserve.

Daniel Ricciardo hopes to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull once the Mexican's contract ends, team boss Christian Horner said on Tuesday. The 34-year-old Australian will be starting his Formula One comeback with Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri in Hungary this weekend after leaving McLaren last season and serving as Red Bull reserve. Ricciardo raced for Red Bull Racing from 2014-18, taking seven of his eight wins with the British-based team. Perez, who joined in 2021, has a contract to the end of 2024. "He (Ricciardo) firmly wants to be pitching for that 2025 Red Bull seat. That's his goal and objective. By going to AlphaTauri I think he sees that as his best route for stating his case for 2025," Horner told Formula One's F1 Nation podcast. Ricciardo has replaced under-performing Dutch rookie Nyck de Vries, who failed to score a point this year, at bottom-placed AlphaTauri with 12 of the season's 22 races remaining. "At the moment, there's only something in place until the end of the season, so there are no thoughts or expectations beyond that," said Horner. "We've loaned him to AlphaTauri until the end of the year. Obviously, our drivers are going to be Max (Verstappen) and Checo (Perez) again next year, but it's always good to have talent in reserve." Also read: Tour de France: Jonas Vingegaard dominates Tadej Pogacar in close duel Red Bull have dominated the season, winning every race, but Verstappen is a hefty 99 points clear of Perez after winning eight of the 10. The Mexican's form has led to speculation that he too might not see out the full term of his contract. Last week's axeing of De Vries was seen as particularly harsh since it came before the Dutch driver had a chance to race in his home race at Zandvoort in August but Horner said delaying the decision made no sense. He revealed also that the firing came about 11 laps into Ricciardo's impressive tyre test for Pirelli after the British Grand Prix. "That would have meant obviously leaving him in the car until after the summer break," he said. "I think the situation was clear. It was a question of OK, what's the point in waiting? "If we've got to do something, we might as well get on with it and give Daniel 12 races to see what he's capable of." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Formula One: Daniel Ricciardo out to replace Sergio Perez for 2025, says Red Bull boss Christian Horner

Max Verstappen is enjoying the most dominant of&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;seasons but Red Bull team boss Christian Horner reckons the double world champion still deserves more recognition. The 25-year-old took a record 14th win of the season in Mexico City on Sunday and has now scored more points in a single campaign (416) than anyone&nbsp;ever, breaking Lewis Hamilton's 2019 record of 413.

Even if seasons now have more races, with changed scoring systems, fastest laps and sprints adding to the points available, Verstappen and Red Bull have undeniably raised the bar this year. The team have won the last nine races and 16 of 20, their greatest haul yet in&nbsp;one&nbsp;championship, and secured both titles for the first time since 2013.

There are still two more races remaining to push the boundaries even further. "We are actually witnessing something very special. And I sometimes think that his achievements perhaps don't receive the plaudits that they should," Horner told reporters after the race at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. "I think actually what we've witnessed this year is an absolutely outstanding performance from a driver who is very much at the top of his game."

There is no question Verstappen gets kudos at home in the Netherlands, just as team mate Sergio Perez does in Mexico, but the sport has become increasingly polarised as it grows in popularity with new audiences. Social media, as Verstappen observed on Sunday night, has become "a very toxic place" populated by "keyboard warriors" far removed from the racetrack.

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'OUTSTANDING YEAR'

"He's won the most grands prix in a year now, within 20 races, on top of that he's won two sprint races and he's not won all of them from pole position," Horner observed. "He's had to fight and race for a lot of those victories. When we look back at the end of the year, it is an absolutely outstanding year that Max has driven. He hasn't put a wheel wrong, he's been perfect throughout the season.

"It's been incredible, the level of consistency that he has been able to achieve." Verstappen's first title in 2021 came amid controversy in the season-ending race, with a late change in the safety car procedure allowing him to overhaul Hamilton on the last lap for victory.

There has been no such suspense this year, with Verstappen wrapping up the title with four races to spare, but the team's breach of the budget cap last year has still allowed some to question their achievement. That clearly rankles, with Verstappen and Horner showing their sensitivity by refusing to talk to Sky television over the Mexico weekend after a pit lane reporter referred to Hamilton being 'robbed' last year. "Accusations of championships being robbed is something we don't feel is an impartial commentary ... Max is very upset about it and as a team we support him fully," said Horner.

Max Verstappen is enjoying the most dominant of Formula One seasons but Red Bull team boss Christian Horner reckons the double world champion still deserves more recognition.

Max Verstappen is enjoying the most dominant of Formula One seasons but Red Bull team boss Christian Horner reckons the double world champion still deserves more recognition. The 25-year-old took a record 14th win of the season in Mexico City on Sunday and has now scored more points in a single campaign (416) than anyone ever, breaking Lewis Hamilton's 2019 record of 413. Even if seasons now have more races, with changed scoring systems, fastest laps and sprints adding to the points available, Verstappen and Red Bull have undeniably raised the bar this year. The team have won the last nine races and 16 of 20, their greatest haul yet in one championship, and secured both titles for the first time since 2013. There are still two more races remaining to push the boundaries even further. "We are actually witnessing something very special. And I sometimes think that his achievements perhaps don't receive the plaudits that they should," Horner told reporters after the race at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. "I think actually what we've witnessed this year is an absolutely outstanding performance from a driver who is very much at the top of his game." There is no question Verstappen gets kudos at home in the Netherlands, just as team mate Sergio Perez does in Mexico, but the sport has become increasingly polarised as it grows in popularity with new audiences. Social media, as Verstappen observed on Sunday night, has become "a very toxic place" populated by "keyboard warriors" far removed from the racetrack. ALSO READ | Max Verstappen sets Formula One record for most wins in a season after clinching Mexico City GP 'OUTSTANDING YEAR' "He's won the most grands prix in a year now, within 20 races, on top of that he's won two sprint races and he's not won all of them from pole position," Horner observed. "He's had to fight and race for a lot of those victories. When we look back at the end of the year, it is an absolutely outstanding year that Max has driven. He hasn't put a wheel wrong, he's been perfect throughout the season. "It's been incredible, the level of consistency that he has been able to achieve." Verstappen's first title in 2021 came amid controversy in the season-ending race, with a late change in the safety car procedure allowing him to overhaul Hamilton on the last lap for victory. There has been no such suspense this year, with Verstappen wrapping up the title with four races to spare, but the team's breach of the budget cap last year has still allowed some to question their achievement. That clearly rankles, with Verstappen and Horner showing their sensitivity by refusing to talk to Sky television over the Mexico weekend after a pit lane reporter referred to Hamilton being 'robbed' last year. "Accusations of championships being robbed is something we don't feel is an impartial commentary ... Max is very upset about it and as a team we support him fully," said Horner.

Max Verstappen deserves more plaudits, says Red Bull team boss Christian Horner

Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has predicted an extremely close battle for the constructors' title in 2022 after running Mercedes close last season. Horner admits that he isn't a fan of sprint races to determine the grid. Horner spoke to Wion Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on his reservations about the format and also spoke candidly on the new generation of F1 drivers.

WION Exclusive: Red Bull's Horner looks ahead to the 2022 F1 season

Before the end of 2021, the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen went past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One&nbsp;2021 season; the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December. While many expected the veteran driver Hamilton to claim his eighth title, it was the 24-year-old Belgian-Dutch racing driver&nbsp;Verstappen who stunned one and all and went ahead of his competitor in the final lap to win a maiden driver's title.

The race was full of ups and downs. The 37-year-old British car race driver&nbsp;Hamilton was on the verge&nbsp;of lifting his eighth title before&nbsp;Canadian driver Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams prior to the four laps before the last one, calling for the appearance of the safety car. Verstappen went ahead with new&nbsp;tyres, however, Hamilton didn't. Thus, the youngster Verstappen moved past his&nbsp;close rival -- courtesy the fresh wheels -- to emerge victorious at the&nbsp;Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi.

The race remains in discussion to date.&nbsp;The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has ordered an investigation into the conduct of the entire proceedings in Abu Dhabi. The result is expected to be out in March, 2022.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> | Red Bull Racing (<a href="https://twitter.com/redbullracing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbullracing</a>) Team Principal Christian Horner speaks to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/Max33Verstappen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Max33Verstappen</a>'s maiden world title win at 2021 <a href="https://twitter.com/F1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbuDhabiGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbuDhabiGP</a> and uncertainty over 7-time World Champion <a href="https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LewisHamilton</a> for the 2022 season<a href="https://twitter.com/redbull?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbull</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/redbullindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@redbullindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/thdSbK9F3h">pic.twitter.com/thdSbK9F3h</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1486024818386477065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/max-verstappens-maiden-formula-one-world-title-red-bulls-biggest-achievement-so-far-christian-horner-436466">Max Verstappen's maiden Formula One World title Red Bull's biggest achievement so far: Christian Horner</a>

Anid all this, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo got a chance to interact with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. Horner&nbsp;opened up on the epic race in Abu Dhabi, rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton, Hamilton's future and more.&nbsp;

The 48-year-old Horner, who remains&nbsp;the mastermind behind four constructors' titles at Red Bull racing, lauded Max's rise and said, "Amazing reception to welcome Max back as a world champion. He has grown up with Red Bull, a product of the junior team. The way he drove last year, he fully deserved the world title."

Horner admitted that a late safety car played into Max's hands and took Hamilton by surprise. On the intense rivalry between the duo, which has gained mileage in recent times, Horner stated it is the need of the hour for the sport. He pointed out, "For sure, sport is all about competition. When you have good serial winners, it becomes less attractive. There was big rivalry and it was very little to choose between the two teams and drivers, hence, it was the best year Formula One has had as a sport for probably 30-40 years."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-sachin-to-rosberg-how-sporting-fraternity-reacted-to-max-verstappens-thrilling-maiden-f1-win-436510">From Sachin to Rosberg: How sporting fraternity reacted to Max Verstappen's thrilling maiden F1 win</a>

Following the season-finale,&nbsp;Hamilton had alleged that the race was manipulated. Moreover, the&nbsp;Mercedes Principal Toto Wolff went ahead and said that the superstar driver is disillusioned and may not race again. Horner, under whose guidance&nbsp;the Red Bull drivers have won as many as five titles, also opined on Hamilton's future. He said, "Certainly, hope Lewis will be around. Ultimately, it is his choice, his career and his decision. I am sure he will decide to do what he wants to do and what is best for him."

Before the end of 2021, the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen went past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One 2021 season; the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December.

Before the end of 2021, the Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen went past the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in a nail-biting end to the Formula One 2021 season; the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December. While many expected the veteran driver Hamilton to claim his eighth title, it was the 24-year-old Belgian-Dutch racing driver Verstappen who stunned one and all and went ahead of his competitor in the final lap to win a maiden driver's title. The race was full of ups and downs. The 37-year-old British car race driver Hamilton was on the verge of lifting his eighth title before Canadian driver Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams prior to the four laps before the last one, calling for the appearance of the safety car. Verstappen went ahead with new tyres, however, Hamilton didn't. Thus, the youngster Verstappen moved past his close rival -- courtesy the fresh wheels -- to emerge victorious at the Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi. The race remains in discussion to date. The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has ordered an investigation into the conduct of the entire proceedings in Abu Dhabi. The result is expected to be out in March, 2022. #EXCLUSIVE | Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) Team Principal Christian Horner speaks to WION's @DiggySinghDeo on @Max33Verstappen's maiden world title win at 2021 @F1 #AbuDhabiGP and uncertainty over 7-time World Champion @LewisHamilton for the 2022 season@redbull @redbullindia pic.twitter.com/thdSbK9F3h — WION (@WIONews) January 25, 2022 × ALSO READ | Max Verstappen's maiden Formula One World title Red Bull's biggest achievement so far: Christian Horner Anid all this, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo got a chance to interact with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. Horner opened up on the epic race in Abu Dhabi, rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton, Hamilton's future and more. The 48-year-old Horner, who remains the mastermind behind four constructors' titles at Red Bull racing, lauded Max's rise and said, "Amazing reception to welcome Max back as a world champion. He has grown up with Red Bull, a product of the junior team. The way he drove last year, he fully deserved the world title." Horner admitted that a late safety car played into Max's hands and took Hamilton by surprise. On the intense rivalry between the duo, which has gained mileage in recent times, Horner stated it is the need of the hour for the sport. He pointed out, "For sure, sport is all about competition. When you have good serial winners, it becomes less attractive. There was big rivalry and it was very little to choose between the two teams and drivers, hence, it was the best year Formula One has had as a sport for probably 30-40 years." ALSO READ | From Sachin to Rosberg: How sporting fraternity reacted to Max Verstappen's thrilling maiden F1 win Following the season-finale, Hamilton had alleged that the race was manipulated. Moreover, the Mercedes Principal Toto Wolff went ahead and said that the superstar driver is disillusioned and may not race again. Horner, under whose guidance the Red Bull drivers have won as many as five titles, also opined on Hamilton's future. He said, "Certainly, hope Lewis will be around. Ultimately, it is his choice, his career and his decision. I am sure he will decide to do what he wants to do and what is best for him."

EXCLUSIVE | Christian Horner opens up on Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Max Verstappen vs Lewis Hamilton rivalry

The 2021 F1 season finale in Abu Dhabi continues to dominate headlines a month before pre-season testing begins. 7-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton has still not committed to racing in 2022 after the controversial end to last season that saw Max Verstappen win a maiden world title. Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner oversaw Verstappen's title challenge and was closely involved in the final moments of the Abu Dhabi GP. Horner spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on Verstappen's win and also on the Hamilton uncertainty.

WION Exclusive: Red Bull's Horner reflects on Verstappen's F1 triumph

Red Bull boss Christian Horner has poured cold water on the prospect of challenging Mercedes and Ferrari early in the Formula One season despite a "positive" start with new engine partner Honda.

Powered by Renault last year, Red Bull finished a distant third behind winners Mercedes and runner-up Ferrari in the constructors' championship.

But with the Honda-powered RB15 car having a positive winter testing, Red Bull are tipped to improve.

Four days before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Horner said his team still had plenty of ground to make up, however.

"We've got an exciting new partnership with Honda starting this weekend so it's off to a positive start but we have to keep expectations realistic," he said at the F1 season launch at Melbourne's Federation Square on Wednesday.

"There's a big gap to close from Mercedes and Ferrari.

"But we're confident that we can do that during the course of the year."

With Daniel Ricciardo having switched to Renault, Red Bull's 21-year-old driver Max Verstappen is now the effective team leader on track and is rated a title contender in his fifth season.

"It was very nice to experience the car, with the new partnership with Honda," Dutchman Verstappen said of pre-season testing. "It's very exciting times for us."

Pierre Gasly, who graduated from feeder team Toro Rosso, has replaced Australian Ricciardo.

The Frenchman had two crashes during testing as he got up to speed with the RB15 and said he still had plenty to learn as he embarks on his second season in Formula One.

"It's an amazing opportunity," he said at the launch. "It's probably the best place to be in Red Bull, with (these) guys next to me."

Red Bull boss Christian Horner has poured cold water on the prospect of challenging Mercedes and Ferrari early in the Formula One season despite a "positive" start with new engine partner Honda.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner has poured cold water on the prospect of challenging Mercedes and Ferrari early in the Formula One season despite a "positive" start with new engine partner Honda. Powered by Renault last year, Red Bull finished a distant third behind winners Mercedes and runner-up Ferrari in the constructors' championship. But with the Honda-powered RB15 car having a positive winter testing, Red Bull are tipped to improve. Four days before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Horner said his team still had plenty of ground to make up, however. "We've got an exciting new partnership with Honda starting this weekend so it's off to a positive start but we have to keep expectations realistic," he said at the F1 season launch at Melbourne's Federation Square on Wednesday. "There's a big gap to close from Mercedes and Ferrari. "But we're confident that we can do that during the course of the year." With Daniel Ricciardo having switched to Renault, Red Bull's 21-year-old driver Max Verstappen is now the effective team leader on track and is rated a title contender in his fifth season. "It was very nice to experience the car, with the new partnership with Honda," Dutchman Verstappen said of pre-season testing. "It's very exciting times for us." Pierre Gasly, who graduated from feeder team Toro Rosso, has replaced Australian Ricciardo. The Frenchman had two crashes during testing as he got up to speed with the RB15 and said he still had plenty to learn as he embarks on his second season in Formula One. "It's an amazing opportunity," he said at the launch. "It's probably the best place to be in Red Bull, with (these) guys next to me."

Motor racing: Red Bull has big gap to close from Mercedes, Ferrari, says boss Christian Horner