Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton said that Red Bull’s investigation into Christian Horner’s conduct is “hanging over” Formula 1.
Horner has been under investigation since early January due to allegations of inappropriate conduct, which overshadowed the team’s launch and pre-season testing last week.
Speaking with the media, Hamilton said that “any allegations have to be taken very seriously.”
“We always have to do more to try to make the sport and the environment that people get to work in feel safe and inclusive.”
However, the British driver was cautious: “Obviously, we don’t know everything that has gone on but it does need to be resolved as it’s hanging over the sport.
“It will be really interesting to see how it’s dealt with moving forward in terms of the effect it may or may not have on the sport.
“I think it’s a really important moment for the sport to make sure we stand true to our values.”
Not a distraction
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen said the investigation into his team boss is not a distraction.
“I’m very focused on the performance of the car and myself,” he said when asked about the impact of the situation.
“Hopefully, it will be resolved very soon.
“It’s a whole team effort that everyone has to stick together and work toward more success.
“That’s why it’s important to get everything resolved very soon. I’m trusting the process. That’s what’s happening right now.
“When you talk about performance, it’s, of course, very important that everyone sticks together.
“Everyone is just very focused on the performance here at the track and everyone is in a good mood and just excited to get going again.”