Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has acknowledged that the ongoing investigation into his conduct has been a "distraction" for the Formula 1 team. Despite this, Horner reassured that the team remains united and focused on the upcoming 2024 season.

Last week, Horner underwent a comprehensive interview with an independent barrister in London. The preliminary results of the investigation are currently being evaluated by Red Bull, who will make a final decision on any necessary actions to be taken. Horner has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing and has continued in his role as team principal, actively participating in the recent shakedown of the new RB20 car at Silverstone and the official launch at the Milton Keynes factory.

While unable to comment directly on the investigation, Horner highlighted the impact it has had on the team's preparations for the upcoming season. When asked if the media frenzy surrounding him and the team had affected their focus, Horner responded, "Inevitably there has been a distraction, but the team is very together. Everybody's focused on the season ahead. So it's been very much business as usual. The support has been fantastic."

Pressed further on whether this distraction would negatively impact the team's performance once racing begins, Horner confidently stated, "I think that the team is gearing up for the season ahead and we're in very good shape...We're fully focused on going racing...We're very united and together in that focus."

Despite the challenges posed by the investigation, Horner emphasized that his mindset remains focused on defending Red Bull's F1 world titles. "Obviously, my focus is very much on the season ahead," he affirmed. "It has been business as usual, obviously there is an investigation, obviously, that I'm complying and working with fully. But that is very much going on in the background whilst we're preparing for the season ahead."

Speculation has arisen regarding potential power struggles within Red Bull, leading to leaks of the investigation details to the media. However, Horner quelled these rumors, asserting that the different entities of Red Bull, including the Thai shareholders and the Austrian parent company, are aligned and fully supportive of the team's operations at Milton Keynes.

"We're very united," Horner insisted. "We've always had tremendous support from the shareholders since Dietrich's passing. The shareholders have been incredibly supportive and you can see the level of investment there is with Powertrains, with the future of Formula 1."

As the investigation continues, Red Bull remains determined to focus on their objectives, with Horner confident that the team is in good shape for the upcoming season. The real test will begin next week in Bahrain, as the RB20 car takes to the track, showcasing Red Bull's aspirations to maintain their winning streak in Formula 1.