BBC explains Fred Vasseur’s ‘assistant’ jab at Christian Horner and 2024 Red Bull controversy

Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur responded cryptically when asked about Christian Horner potentially joining the Maranello team, saying, "You have to ask my assistant..." BBC Formula 1 correspondent Andrew Benson explained that Vasseur's remark appeared to reference the controversy leading up to Horner's departure from Red Bull in July 2025.

The Red Bull employee who made misconduct allegations against Horner in early 2024 served as his personal assistant. Horner denied wrongdoing, and the complaint was dismissed, with tribunal proceedings later discontinued in late 2025 amid reports of an estimated €60 million settlement.