Christian Horner was 'hurt' after Geri Halliwell set some marriage rules for their relationship, according to a source.
However, the Red Bull chief has supposedly agreed to his wife's wishes as the saga surrounding his job continues to rumble on.
Horner, right now, will feel vindicated after Red Bull recently cleared the 50-year-old of misconduct.
He has repeatedly denied allegations of inappropriate behaviour and is preparing for this weekend's Grand Prix in Australia as normal, with Red Bull winning the first two races of the season so far.
Christian Horner was reportedly left 'hurt' after Geri Halliwell set a list of marriage rules
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According to Closer, Geri has set some marriage rules for her relationship.
The Spice Girls icon has been standing by her husband in public while the situation has continued to rumble on, backing him with appearances in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Yet Horner was apparently left 'hurt' by Geri's decision to set some rules, with a source quoted as saying: “Christian was initially hurt by the idea of a list of rules and said it felt like her showing distrust.
"She insisted that while she still loves him, she has to protect herself and urged him to put himself in her shoes to understand the torment she’s endured with the public humiliation and embarrassment.
“Christian eventually backed down and has agreed to do whatever it takes."
Another insider says Geri feels 'easier' since the rules were set in place.
However, the 51-year-old is also reportedly still in 'self-protect mode' while her husband remains under scrutiny.
Horner, importantly, has the backing of Red Bull's major shareholders, the Yoovidhya family.
But while Red Bull are continuing to support the 50-year-old, there could be consequences for the rest of the team.
Reports have suggested Max Verstappen could leave Red Bull in the near future, with a move to Mercedes being mooted.
The Silver Arrows are yet to confirm a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, who is joining Ferrari at the end of the season.
Verstappen is the best driver on the planet right now, having won the last three F1 titles - ending Hamilton's dominance of the sport in the process.
And it was recently claimed Red Bull, if push comes to shove, are ready to choose Horner over the 26-year-old.
Horner has remained defiant throughout the ordeal, having been team principal of the team ever since his appointment in 2005.
The Briton has overseen the success of both Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel during his time in the role.
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Christian Horner and Max Verstappen are targeting more glory at the Australian Grand Prix
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Yet Ralf Schumacher, brother of F1 icon Michael Schumacher, insists Horner should leave his position because he's such a big distraction for the sport.
"It wasn't until race day in Bahrain that there was even a little bit of talk about the sport, the German told Sport1.
"I can't accept that he keeps saying he doesn't want to talk about it.
"I can say from my own experience, from my divorce, yes, it is difficult at the beginning when such a private matter is carried out in public.
"But there comes a time when we have to talk about it because it's what's best for all parties."
Christian Horner has repeatedly denied allegations of inappropriate behaviour as the Australian Grand Prix nears
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He added: "And one thing is certain - as long as this goes on, it does immense damage to Red Bull.
"Horner said himself that no one is more important than the team. Well, he should follow this command and resign as soon as possible."
