Inside the Christian and Geri Horner texting scandal that nearly tore team Red Bull apart
The highly anticipated seventh season of Formula 1: Drive to Survive is set to premiere on Netflix, offering an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the thrilling world of Formula 1. This season promises to be just as dramatic as the previous ones, with a particular focus on the controversy surrounding Christian Horner, the team principal of defending champions Red Bull.
In 2024, Horner found himself at the center of a media storm after being accused of “inappropriate, controlling behavior” by a female colleague. Despite denying the allegations, Horner faced a rigorous three-week investigation, which ultimately cleared him of any wrongdoing. However, the controversy didn’t end there, as WhatsApp texts allegedly sent between Horner and his accuser were leaked to the media, sparking further speculation.
Throughout the ordeal, Horner’s wife, Geri Halliwell, stood by him, and the couple even made a defiant appearance at the Bahrain Grand Prix in March 2024. However, sources close to the couple revealed that Geri found the experience incredibly challenging, and the allegations had a profound impact on her mental health.
The controversy surrounding Horner also had repercussions within the Red Bull team. Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, publicly expressed his concerns about the team’s dynamics, stating that Horner’s presence was causing tension and could potentially “tear the team apart.” Meanwhile, Horner’s accuser was suspended from her job with full pay, and later submitted a formal appeal to Red Bull GmbH.
As the season progressed, Horner faced further challenges, including the departure of key team members, such as chief technology officer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley. Horner’s personal life was also under scrutiny, with reports of a “make or break” trip with Geri to save their nine-year marriage.
Despite the turmoil, Horner was ultimately exonerated when his accuser’s appeal was dismissed in August 2024. A statement from Red Bull GmbH confirmed that the complaint had been thoroughly investigated and that Horner had been cleared of any wrongdoing.
The seventh season of Drive to Survive promises to delve deeper into the controversy surrounding Horner and the Red Bull team. With unprecedented access to the team and its drivers, the documentary series will provide a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at the world of Formula 1. As Geri Halliwell prophetically warns her husband in the season premiere, “You never know what life’s going to bring.” One thing is certain, however: this season of Drive to Survive is set to be just as dramatic and unpredictable as the previous ones.
