Horner faces Friday meeting over inappropriate behaviour claim

An investigation is currently under way against the 50-year-old who has been Red Bull Racing boss since the team's inception in 2005.

Horner is determined to clear his name, stating categorically that he completely denies the allegations being made against him.

RacingNews365 understands that at present Horner is continuing in his duties as Team Principal. On Monday, he attended a hearing of the F1 Commission.

Earlier that day, a Red Bull spokesperson confirmed that the company had been "made aware of certain recent allegations" resulting in the launch of "an independent investigation".

The spokesperson added: "This process, which is already ongoing, is being carried out by an external, specialised lawyer.

"The company takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practical."

Horner is one of the most successful team principals in the history of the sport, leading Red Bull to six constructors' titles over the past 19 seasons, and seven drivers' championships, with Sebastian Vettel winning four, and Max Verstappen the past three.

Due to his success with the team, Horner was awarded in CBE in the New Year's Honours List, to add to the OBE he received in 2013.

Red Bull is due to launch its latest car, the RB20, on February 15 at the team's headquarters in Milton Keynes. At present, it is not known whether Horner will be in attendance.

It is understood Red Bull is eager to resolve the matter before that date ahead of focusing on the new season that begins with pre-season testing in Bahrain the following week.