A newly surfaced clip has revealed Geri Halliwell’s reaction to her husband Christian Horner being loudly booed by fans following the controversy surrounding his alleged sex-texting scandal. The moment, which had not previously been broadcast, shows Halliwell watching from the crowd as Horner faced a hostile reception during a high-profile Formula One launch event.
Halliwell, 53, had frequently attended race weekends in support of her husband during his tenure as Red Bull team principal. She was often seen in the paddock at major events such as the British Grand Prix, standing by his side before his eventual dismissal from the team last season. However, in early 2024, their lives were thrust into turmoil when a series of leaked messages, allegedly sent by Horner, emerged. The messages were described as suggestive in nature and led to accusations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior from a female employee.
An internal investigation was launched by Red Bull’s parent company, Red Bull GmbH, based in Salzburg. The inquiry was conducted by a senior barrister (KC), who reportedly questioned Horner for an entire day at a confidential location. The resulting 150-page report was submitted to the Red Bull board. On two separate occasions, Horner was cleared of wrongdoing. In a formal statement, the company confirmed that the grievance had been dismissed, emphasizing that the process had been independent, thorough, and impartial. They also noted that the complainant retained the right to appeal, but declined to disclose further details due to confidentiality.
Throughout the ordeal, Halliwell remained publicly supportive of her husband. Her loyalty was evident once again at the F1 72 launch event held at London’s O2 Arena in February 2024. When Horner stepped onto the stage to deliver his speech, a significant portion of the crowd responded with loud boos. Despite the reception, he maintained a smile and attempted to brush off the negativity, opening his remarks by saying it was a pleasure to be at the O2 and expressing hope that the audience was enjoying the evening.
Netflix cameras captured Halliwell’s reaction during the tense moment. She appeared composed and smiling, yet her expression hinted at concern as she watched her husband endure the public backlash. The footage suggests she was trying to project strength and calm, even as the atmosphere grew uncomfortable.
In subsequent commentary, Horner addressed the reaction and the broader criticism he has faced. He suggested that sustained success often breeds resentment, remarking that when a team dominates, fans may grow tired of seeing the same winners. He likened Formula One to a form of pantomime, describing himself and his team as “the villains” in the narrative. According to Horner, he no longer worries about public opinion, insisting that the sport is ultimately judged by results rather than popularity.
He reiterated that embracing the “pantomime villain” role is part of competing at the highest level, arguing that Red Bull’s relentless pursuit of dominance naturally attracts criticism. For Horner, anything short of total success is considered unacceptable, reinforcing his belief that performance, not perception, defines achievement in Formula One.
The incident was observed by several prominent drivers in attendance. Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc were seen watching as the boos rang out. Hamilton appeared visibly surprised backstage, reacting with an expletive upon hearing the crowd’s response. Red Bull drivers Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson were also present; Lawson commented that they might face significant booing, while Verstappen shrugged off the possibility, indicating indifference.
Just days before the O2 event, Horner had spoken publicly at Red Bull’s car launch, where he addressed the allegations for the first time. He emphasized that his family, particularly Halliwell, had been very supportive. He firmly denied the accusations and stated that he had fully cooperated with the ongoing process. At that time, he expressed confidence in the team’s unity and shifted focus toward defending their world titles in the upcoming season.
Despite surviving the investigation and continuing in his role for a time, Horner’s position at Red Bull eventually became untenable. Amid reports of an internal power struggle within the Thai-Austrian organization and lingering controversy from the scandal, he was dismissed midway through the 2025 season. After leading the team since 2005 and overseeing 13 world championships, he departed the organization in July with a reported £80 million severance package.
The newly revealed footage of Halliwell’s reaction offers a glimpse into the personal toll the controversy took, highlighting her steadfast support during one of the most challenging periods of Horner’s career.