Home

F1

Bernie Ecclestone Shuts “Untrue” News around Christian Horner Investigation by Denying Any Involvement

Published 02/14/2024, 4:47 AM EST

Follow Us

via Imago

The world of Formula 1 is buzzing with headlines after headlines. Currently, the hottest topic of discussion is Christian Horner and Red Bull‘s investigation into his alleged ‘inappropriate behavior’. With varying news updates coming out of the Red Bull boss’s saga, one that shocked everyone was Bernie Ecclestone‘s involvement in it. However, the British billionaire took to social media to reveal his side of the story.

The former owner was alleged to have interfered with the investigation via multiple telephonic conversations. Albeit in an advisory capacity, Ecclestone’s involvement in the investigation would’ve sullied the integrity with his history with Horner. However, to clear his name of any wrongdoing, Ecclestone took to Instagram to deliver a message.

“To clarify reports by newspapers that I had urged or suggested that Christian Horner should step down from his position in Red Bull is entirely UNTRUE,” read the message.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The former boss quickly wanted to get his name out of the investigation and debunk all rumors of his involvement. He clearly specified how he did not suggest anyone stepping down from their post because of any allegations.

$3.3 Billion F1 Tycoon Bernie Ecclestone Gets Real About His Glamorous Life in the Swinging Sixties

This admission exempts Ecclestone from the equation but there are still no developments on the controversy, nor do we have any final date for a verdict. However, the controversial Brit is used to making explosive public statements. Although, not all are in his favor, let us tell you with an example.

Bernie Ecclestone pleads guilty

The Britisher has immeasurable wealth which he amassed during his reign as the F1 boss even before selling the commercial rights to Liberty Media. However, he hasn’t been able to manage his wealth to the best of his abilities. In his attempts to save millions from tax, the Brit made some questionable choices that he became answerable to in front of the law.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

via Getty

Ecclestone put a whopping $650 million in a trust for his daughters and only told them about it. However, the Brit was supposed to disclose this trust and its value to the UK tax authorities as well. Failing to do so was a criminal offense and despite pleading not guilty to these accusations at the start, with a trial imminent, Ecclestone pled guilty to fraud before the trial.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest F1 stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

According to reports, Ecclestone was not aware his trust based in Singapore was taxable. Their prosecutor said, “Mr. Ecclestone was not entirely clear on how ownership of the accounts in question was structured [when he was initially accused]. He, therefore, did not know whether it was liable for tax, interest, or penalties in relation to amounts passing through the accounts.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY: Biggest Scandals in F1 History

So, as one can see, Ecclestone is always surrounded by some controversy or the other. So before he was dragged into another, the Brit decided to clear his name from the Horner controversy in the most public way possible.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Mahim Suhalka

2,201Articles

One take at a time

Mahim is a senior Formula 1 writer at EssentiallySports. With a Diploma in Sports Management, he ventured into sports journalism for his sheer passion for F1. Mahim has written over 2000 articles during his tenure at ES, and his expertise is in perspective pieces and core sports coverage.
Show More>

Edited by:

Akash Pandhare