Christian Horner has reportedly been advised to step down as Red Bull chief by former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.
Horner, who has been with the team since they entered the sport in 2005, is being investigated over claims of 'inappropriate behaviour', as first reported by De Telegraaf.
While the investigation is currently ongoing and expected to last quite some time, Horner 'completely' denies the allegations made against him, and will stay on as Red Bull team principal as the investigation takes place.
Now, F1 Insider.com are reporting that Horner has been told by Ecclestone that he should simply resign in order to avoid any unwanted damage to his reputation.
Ecclestone is the former chief executive of Formula 1 group, and was involved in the day-to-day running of the sport from the late 1970s right through to 2017.
Horner investigation ongoing
It is understood that Ecclestone is an acquaintance of Horner's and has provided the Red Bull team principal with some advice for how he should go about handling the situation.
However, in response to this, Horner has reportedly vowed to continue, and will not vacate his position as he continues to strongly deny the allegations.
With the new F1 season fast approaching, it has been suggested that the investigation into Horner's conduct could last until at least the first race in Bahrain, throwing a shade over the start of the world champions' title defence.