FIA president shares news about Christian Horner’s return to F1
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem shared that he’s “regularly” chatting with Christian Horner about a possible comeback.
After 20 years with Red Bull, Horner was let go following a tough 18 months that included some poor race results, uncertainty about Max Verstappen’s future, and an accusation from a female employee.
Horner left Red Bull after helping the team win eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles, making him one of the most successful team bosses in recent times.
So it’s no surprise Horner’s name keeps popping up linked with a return to Formula One, especially with teams like Aston Martin, Alpine, and Audi.
His contract with Red Bull had a non-compete clause that stopped him joining another team until May 8, so now he’s free to come back if a deal happens.
Sulayem said Horner’s return is likely, noting, “people will come to him” because of his strong record.
He added, “Who can erase Christian Horner’s name from motorsport and Formula 1? No one can. He’s been very successful, though success sometimes attracts critics.”
Sulayem also said, “I miss him in the sport—I keep in touch with him. He was good for the team and good for Formula 1. We’d be happy to see him back. He’s got a good heart and wants to return. When he does come back, it will be like he’s coming back from a vacation.”
Among the teams linked to Horner, Alpine seems like the front-runner. The French team confirmed in January that Horner is part of a group interested in buying a 24% stake.
Meanwhile, Aston Martin’s boss Lawrence Stroll is also speaking with Horner, hoping to bring him in a role like CEO with some ownership in the team.
Sulayem commented, “With his background, people know he’s credible and will come to him. But it has to be a two-way street—you have to show interest too. I don’t give advice, just ideas. He knows so much and has an amazing record. I really like him. He’s been a big character in the sport.”