Horner hints at F1 return after Red Bull departure

Summarised from 2 outlets · 5 reports · Updated 21 Oct, 10:08 · Archive

Christian Horner has said he would strongly consider a return to Formula 1 if the right opportunity arose.

Christian Horner, sacked as Red Bull team principal in July 2025 after 20 years in the role, has indicated he would seriously consider a return to Formula 1 if the right opportunity arose. The 52-year-old received a £67 million pay-out from Red Bull. He told Sky Sports that if an appropriate opening appeared at one of the sport's eleven teams, he would 'certainly look at it very strongly', though he said he is currently comfortable with life away from the paddock.

Horner previously courted controversy by publicly hinting at a move to Ferrari, describing the constructor as 'the biggest brand in Formula 1' and 'the dream'. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur responded by issuing a statement backing his position at the team. Horner has since addressed the fallout from that interview, which created pressure on Vasseur. He noted that talks with Alpine over buying a stake took place earlier this year but said he does not currently see such an opportunity there.

With a new book titled 'Drive' released on Thursday, Horner remains prominent in Formula 1 discussion. He told Sky Sports that all eleven teams in the sport have increased significantly in value, making any team ownership or senior role a substantial proposition.

How it is being reported

• Christian Horner hints at F1 comeback after Ferrari speculation and £67m Red Bull pay-outFormer Red Bull chief Christian Horner has addressed rumours of a return to F1 with Alpine, saying he would "look at it very strongly" if the offer came alongThe Mirror · 21 Oct, 09:46
• Horner explains his influence in Hamilton signing... for Mercedes!Christian Horner explains how he convinced Niki Lauda to sign Hamilton for Mercedes in 2012.Sky Sports · 21 Oct, 08:24
• Horner reveals Red Bull decision that helped Mercedes sign HamiltonChristian Horner has revealed he helped Mercedes sign Lewis Hamilton after holding early discussions with the British driver's management to join Red Bull.Sky Sports · 21 Oct, 06:12
• Horner: Wolff and Mercedes finding life easier without meChristian Horner says Mercedes and Toto Wolff are finding life in Formula 1 "easier" without the former Red Bull team principal.Sky Sports · 20 Oct, 16:12
• 'He's got it easy!' - Horner talks Wolff rivalry and Mercedes' 'great' yearChristian Horner jokes that Toto Wolff's life is much easier without him in F1, reflecting on their fierce rivalry over the years.Sky Sports · 20 Oct, 13:44

In this story: Christian Horner · Red Bull · Alpine · Ferrari · Fred Vasseur

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