Did Helmut Marko Plot Against Christian Horner? Power Struggle Following Founder Dietrich Mateschitz Death Could Have Reached a Tipping Point

The future of Christian Horner, one of the most successful team principals in Formula 1 history, looks uncertain as he awaits the conclusion of an internal investigation against him. The probe was launched when allegations of ‘inappropriate behavior’ toward one of Red Bull Racing’s female employees were released. These allegations came when Horner was preparing for Red Bull’s title defense. However, there have been rumors that the timing of these allegations amid the power struggle within Red Bull might not just be a coincidence.

Since the passing of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, rumors have suggested a growing tension between Christian Horner and Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, as they control distinct aspects of Red Bull Racing’s operations. Could the ensuing investigation against Horner be a result of the power struggle reaching a boiling point within Red Bull? Let’s look at what we know so far.

Red Bull’s loss of trust in Christian Horner shows signs of an internal struggle

Back in 2023, there were rumors that Christian Horner was trying to gain more power in Red Bull at the expense of Helmut Marko. However, these speculations were soon put down by the two. In October, Horner told the Daily Mirror they’ve always had a strong bond. “There are things we disagree on now and again, but I think that’s healthy.” Similarly, Marko clarified to Sky Sports that they’ve known each other for a long time and built the whole operation together. “It’s worked so far, and we’ll see it works in the future too.”

When the Dutch publication De Telegraaf published the report on the accusations against Horner, Red Bull immediately released a statement that said the company was launching a strict internal investigation. But Red Bull Racing denied any knowledge of such allegations. Officials from Red Bull [we don’t know the identity of said officials] even went as far as to advise Christian Horner to step down from his role as team principal. According to De Telegraaf, this was a clear sign of how things will unfold, as reported by GP Blog.

Is it possible that Helmut Marko might have conspired against Christian Horner following the power struggle between the two? After Marko’s contract extension, journalist Christian Nimmervoll spoke to him, who deflected the question. According to his tweet, “Helmut Marko continues to refuse to talk to me about the topic. Only when I asked him whether he wasn’t actually behind a conspiracy against Horner, he says: ‘Horner has done a great job over the years.’” [Translated by Google]

However, it must be noted that this neither proves nor disproves anything. These are still just rumors circling in the F1 community at this point, and there is no evidence for or against them whatsoever.

Red Bull Racing is set to launch its 2024 challenger on February 15 as planned, and it needs to be prepared regardless of the outcome of the investigation. That includes having a potential team principal ready if need be.

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A replacement for Horner might already be in place

Red Bull’s parent company taking the matter into their own hands has only proved that they are taking it seriously. While it has been confirmed that Horner will keep his position until the outcome of the investigation, he is set to appear in a hearing for the allegations made against him on Friday.

As Horner’s future at Red Bull hangs in the balance, German and Austrian media – having close ties with Red Bull and Helmut Marko – suggest it could mark the end of Horner’s tenure as team principal. There have been speculations surrounding Horner’s replacement should the allegations be proven right. Team Manager Jonathan Wheatley will likely become the interim team principal, as the situation will get resolved internally.

What are your thoughts on the internal power struggle at Red Bull? Share your insights in the comments down below.

Editorial Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of EssentiallySports.

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