Horner Eyes Selective F1 Return as Partner-Owner

Christian Horner broke his public silence at the European Motor Show in Dublin, saying he has ‘unfinished business’ in Formula 1 (F1) after his dismissal in July 2025. He reflected on 21 years leading Red Bull and the team’s record under his stewardship — 124 Grand Prix wins and a combined 14 world titles (eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ crowns). Horner said he misses the sport and defended the often-stormy but respectful rivalry with Mercedes chief Toto Wolff. He confirmed he had met FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and that these were his first public remarks since leaving Red Bull; Laurent Mekies was named Red Bull’s successor shortly after his departure.

Horner made clear any return would be selective and strategic. He said he is eligible to return to the paddock from this spring and would only consider roles that offer real influence and a realistic chance to win, preferring a partner or ownership role rather than being a ‘hired hand’. He stressed he is not in a rush to re-enter the paddock and would only come back with a clear purpose and pathway to success.

Media reports link Horner to several potential avenues back into the sport. The most prominent is a reported consortium eyeing Otro Capital’s 24% stake in Alpine, a move Flavio Briatore has confirmed he was involved in; Alpine has said the sale cannot proceed before September without Renault Group approval, a timing constraint that affects this investment route. Other reports have connected Horner with possible roles or ties to Ferrari, Aston Martin, Cadillac and Haas.

Taken together, his statements and the ongoing talks signal a measured, ownership-centred approach to any return to F1.