JUST IN: Horner disregards ‘unattributed speculation’ following the leakage of files.

Red Bull principal Christian Horner has rejected “unattributed speculation” following the widespread distribution of files purportedly linked to his misconduct investigation. This occurred just two days before his team begins their quest for a fourth consecutive Formula One drivers’ championship.

In a surprising off-track development during the Bahrain Grand Prix second practice, files were emailed to nearly 200 individuals in the F1 paddock, including Liberty Media, F1, the FIA, other team principals, and various media outlets. The files’ authenticity, originating from a generic email account, remains unverified by ESPN or The Associated Press.

The files were sent the day after the team’s parent company dismissed a complaint of alleged misconduct by Horner toward a team employee. Horner, present during the practice, released a statement through a team spokesperson, emphasizing that he won’t address anonymous speculation but reiterating his denial of the allegations. He highlighted his cooperation with an independent investigation that concluded by dismissing the complaint.

The specifics of the allegations against Horner have not been disclosed publicly, and Red Bull stated that the complainant has the right to appeal the decision. Despite these developments, Horner is expected to be in the Bahrain paddock for qualifying on Friday.

Horner, who has been the team principal since Red Bull entered F1 in 2005, expressed his focus on the season’s start and the team’s unity. McLaren’s Zak Brown urged F1 and the FIA to reexamine Red Bull’s decision, calling for transparency. Mercedes’ Toto Wolff echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for more transparency in the sport regarding such critical issues. Horner, still in his role during the internal investigation, led Red Bull during Thursday practice, stating that the team is more unified than ever as they approach the new season.