Suddenly the Red Bull camp became the center of a huge controversy with Christian Horner in the line of fire. By now, we are all aware of the accusations toward the British boss. The accusations and ongoing investigation have divided opinion on many fronts. In fact, after the news of Horner’s possible resignation, many rumors suggest a lot of high-profile entities will leave with him. However, a former F1 driver delivered his verdict on the Red Bull boss’s future.

The final hearing, according to various sources, is on Friday which will decide Horner’s future and reveal if there is any proof in the accusations of his alleged inappropriate behavior. The all-important meeting will effectively seal Horner’s fate in F1 and clear or mar his reputation. However, speaking ahead of the meeting, as quoted by Formule1.nl, Dutch racer Giedo van der Garde believes Horner won’t be suspended.

The former Caterham F1 Team driver said, “I don’t see a suspension happening very quickly, but it is of course a stain on his name,” he said. “The team is now putting the finishing touches on it, but I don’t think Horner has to play a very big role in that.” (Translated via Google) 

However, even worse becomes the reality for Horner. The Dutchman, among others, already has a replacement in mind. “There are quite a few guys under Christian Horner who are very good,” said Van der Garde. “Jonathan Wheatley is a really good guy. If Horner is kicked out, he will become the big boss.”

Read More: F1 Rumor: Christian Horner Asked to Resign Following ‘Inappropriate Behavior’ Accusations

If found guilty, Horner’s dismissal will have massive repercussions, even if there is a replacement in place. Moreover, some reports suggest it won’t just be Horner that Red Bull will need to replace.

The special clause that intertwines the future of Adrian Newey and Christian Horner

Horner was the man who poached the genius Adrian Newey from McLaren back in 2005 and convinced him to join a brand new team like Red Bull at the time. We all know how the British engineer’s time has been at the Milton Keynes outfit. However, because of this shared history, if Horner is forced to leave, Newey might leave as well.

This revelation was made by Joe Saward. He tweeted, “It has long been believed that Christian Horner and Adrian Newey have contracts that protect one another. If one leaves the other can as well. This has never been confirmed – but it makes for an interesting dynamic if something were to happen to Horner.”

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There is no official confirmation yet on such clauses existing in their contracts. However, if the Friday announcement is not in Horner’s favor, we might just find out. But if the Dutchman Giedo van der Garde’s prediction comes true, it won’t be bad news for the British boss and he will continue leading the line at Red Bull.