Christian Horner has wasted little time in exploring his next move in Formula 1. Nothing is set in stone yet, but there is already one option pulling ahead of the rest.
Horner was removed as Red Bull team principal in July, though he remained under contract until the end of September. His separation agreement prevents him from taking another role until spring.
Few have a better track record than the Briton, who turned Red Bull into one of F1’s dominant teams over two decades. During that span, they collected eight drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships.
However, with major regulation changes just around the corner, teams might be hesitant to make big leadership decisions before seeing how they adapt to the new landscape.
Christian Horner being tipped to join Alpine in 2025
ESPN have weighed up the chances of Horner taking over at each of the eight teams not owned by Red Bull, and one option stands out above the rest.
They give a nine out of 10 rating for an Alpine move, adding that they would come out on top if there were a ‘straw poll in the paddock’.
The Enstone team is seen as the most sensible fit by ‘well-placed sources’. Horner is on good terms with Flavio Briatore, who is serving as executive advisor at Alpine, and they have met up several times recently.
Alpine have consistently denied any plans for a full sale, but are reportedly open to outside investment. Horner wants more than just a team principal role – he is looking to buy into his next project.
There has been talk that Horner would not consider any team running Mercedes power units because of his tense history with Toto Wolff. However, ESPN notes that Wolff is not involved in Renault’s decision-making process.
Lawrence Stroll invites Christian Horner to his home following Red Bull exit
It was also revealed during the Singapore GP that Horner has been in touch with Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll. Sky Sports reporter Craig Slater provided more context around that interaction.
“In terms of Aston Martin, Horner is a personal friend of owner Lawrence Stroll and I understand he was a guest at Stroll’s house in the aftermath of his departure from Red Bull. It doesn’t look like that will come to anything.
“Horner is having rounds of meetings with significant business groups – global banks, sovereign wealth funds and individuals of significant personal wealth.”
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Andy Cowell, the current team principal at Aston Martin, has stated there are no ongoing discussions about bringing Horner into the organisation. Although Stroll remains open to new investment, this move does not appear to be on the cards according to ESPN’s assessment.
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