Horner to Aston Martin: Relationship with Newey is not an obstacle, according to sources

Christian Horner in Aston Martin’s Orbit

Christian Horner, a key figure in the Formula 1 world, is emerging as a potential leader for the Aston Martin team. Aston Martin is reportedly considering a change in its management structure, which opens the door for Horner’s arrival. Sources close to the team indicate that Andy Cowell, current head of the team, could take on a different role, possibly overseeing Aston Martin’s power unit project, which will partner with Honda from 2026. Lawrence Stroll, owner of Aston Martin, has big ambitions to turn his team into a champion, with his sights set on the new F1 regulations. This includes the incorporation of Adrian Newey, a renowned designer, and the construction of a modern facility in Silverstone.

Horner would be on the list of candidates to take a leadership position. Other names being considered are Andreas Seidl, former McLaren boss, and Mattia Binotto, current CEO of Sauber/Audi and former Ferrari boss. Recently, Horner reached an agreement with Red Bull, freeing him to return to Formula 1 in early 2026. The deal is estimated to be worth $100 million. It is speculated that Horner would not return to F1 only as a team principal, but could do so with significant financial backing as part of an investment deal. A move to Aston Martin would reunite Horner with Newey, who left Red Bull in 2023 to join Aston Martin as technical director and co-owner of the team. Horner and Newey were fundamental in transforming Red Bull into a dominant force in F1.

Although there were speculations about a possible split between Horner and Newey, sources close to them assure that they would have no problem working together again.

A possible challenge for Horner’s arrival at Aston Martin could be Lawrence Stroll’s interest in bringing Max Verstappen to the team in the future. The relationship between Horner and Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, was tense in the past, although it is believed that Horner and the four-time world champion maintain a good relationship.