Christian Horner has spoken publicly for the first time since his dismissal from Red Bull, expressing a desire to return to Formula 1 for a winning opportunity. The former team principal, who led Red Bull to multiple championships, stated he has unfinished business in the sport but is not in a rush. He spoke at the European Motor Show in Dublin on January 31, 2026.
Christian Horner, the 52-year-old former CEO and team principal of Red Bull, addressed his future in Formula 1 during an appearance at the European Motor Show in Dublin on January 31, 2026. Dismissed following the British Grand Prix in July 2025 with his official exit agreed in September, Horner oversaw 20 years of success at the Milton Keynes-based team, securing eight drivers' championships and six constructors' titles.
His departure came 18 months after allegations of inappropriate behaviour from a female colleague, which he denied and was twice exonerated from by internal investigations. Replaced by Laurent Mekies, Horner received a reported £52 million payout, five years before his contract was due to expire.
In his first public comments since leaving, Horner said: “I feel like I have unfinished business in Formula One. It didn’t finish the way that I would have liked it to finish. But I am not going to come back for just anything. I am only going to come back for something that can win.” He added that he misses the sport, the people, and the team he built over 21 incredible years, during which he worked with top drivers, engineers, and partners.
Horner emphasized he would only return as a partner in a competitive environment, not as a 'hired hand,' and is not rushing into decisions. He revealed visiting every F1 team since stepping away on July 8, 2025, and noted an appetite for his involvement, though he cannot act until spring. A consortium involving Horner is in talks to purchase Otro Capital’s 24% stake in Alpine, who finished last in the 2025 constructors' championship and will use Mercedes engines from 2026 to 2030. He has also been linked to Aston Martin and Ferrari.
Reflecting on his rivalry with Mercedes' Toto Wolff, Horner expressed respect: “We are just different people, equally competitive... Sport is boring if everybody is friendly and loves each other.” Following this, Horner plans speaking tours, including shows in Australia in February and March 2026.
