Christian Horner: Where will the former Red Bull boss land in 2026?
Following Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull, speculation about his future in Formula 1 has skyrocketed. Aston Martin boss Andy Cowell has revealed that Horner has been in contact with several team owners to explore potential returns. Horner, after a $100 million deal with Red Bull, will be able to return to the paddock starting next spring. It is rumored that he is not simply looking to replicate his previous role, but rather seeking business partners to acquire a significant stake in a team. Although his options seem limited, here we analyze the probability of him joining any of the teams that are not owned by Red Bull.
Alpine
Alpine emerges as the most likely option. The team, which changed its name from Renault in 2021, has lacked vision and leadership. Sources close to the situation suggest that Horner could be a perfect fit, given his ability to build a winning team. Alpine, which is currently at the bottom of the rankings, is seeking external investment and already received a capital injection of $218.10 million in 2023. With the growing popularity of F1, it is estimated that this investment could generate significant profits. Horner’s relationship with Flavio Briatore, who returned to the team in an executive role, and Alpine’s need to attract talent and experience, make this option very attractive. Furthermore, Horner’s arrival could generate an interesting dynamic when working with Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes, due to Alpine’s engine agreement.Probability: 9/10 – The most logical destination for Horner.Haas
Haas, the American team of Gene Haas, seems a less likely option. Despite the potential investment that Horner could bring, the owner does not seem willing to sell even a small part of the team. It has been confirmed that there was no interest in any investment. The lack of external investment has been a point of friction, and the team could greatly benefit from a significant financial boost. However, unless Gene Haas changes his stance, this option seems unlikely.Probability: 3/10 – Improbable, but could be an unexpected bet.
Aston Martin
Horner has shown interest in joining Aston Martin, a team with great potential thanks to the investment of Lawrence Stroll. However, Aston Martin’s management structure already has important figures, which makes it difficult to determine the role Horner could play. Andy Cowell, CEO of Aston Martin, denied any plans for Horner’s involvement in the team. Furthermore, the relationship between Horner and Jos Verstappen, father of Max Verstappen, could hinder the latter’s arrival at Aston Martin.Probability: 1/10 – Although anything is possible in F1, this option is unlikely.Ferrari
In June, Horner denied having been contacted by Ferrari CEO John Elkann. Although they both maintain a good relationship, any immediate opportunity at Ferrari seems ruled out, as the Italian team renewed the contract of its director Fred Vasseur. Furthermore, Horner has expressed in the past his lack of interest in being part of a broader corporate structure.Probability: 1/10 – A radical change would be necessary for an opportunity to open.
Williams
It doesn’t seem there’s mutual interest between Williams and Horner. Team principal James Vowles has stated there has been no contact, and Williams’ owners, Dorilton Capital, have indicated that the team is not for sale.Probability: 1/10 – Never completely ruled out, but no signs of interest.Audi
Audi, which will become an “official” team in 2026, could be an opportunity for Horner. Although there has been no obvious public interest, it could represent a great opportunity to enter a new program from scratch. However, Horner’s entry with a significant stake in the team seems unlikely, given that Audi has already sold a minority stake. It’s difficult to see Horner fitting into the significant role he seeks.Probability: 1/10 – Unlikely.
Mercedes
As long as Toto Wolff remains at Mercedes, Horner’s arrival is impossible. Wolff has expressed that he misses his rivalry with Horner, but that doesn’t mean he will change his stance.Probability: 0/10 – No chance while Wolff remains on the team.
McLaren
Given the mutual disdain between Zak Brown and Horner, this option is unlikely. McLaren is in the hands of Mumtalakat and CYVN Holdings, and the investment required for a significant stake could be prohibitive. Furthermore, McLaren’s owners would not consider replacing Brown to accommodate Horner.Probability: 0/10 – Will never happen.
