What Christian Horner’s potential return could mean for F1
In and out?
Christian Horner’s abrupt exit from Red Bull Racing has left him on an extended spell of gardening leave, but a comeback to Formula 1 might be on the horizon sooner than many expect...
Big moves
Whether it’s a return to the pit lane or a role within the FIA, Horner already has options on the table. When asked by Sky Sports F1 if he’d miss having Horner around, Toto Wolff replied: "In a way, in a way, yes, he was one of the main cast. First of all, I don't think he is gone forever. I think he's gonna pop up in some kind of other faction. I need to be careful," said the Mercedes boss with a smile.
Opening the door
Reports from BILD in Germany suggest Ferrari have already made contact with Horner, which could open the door to a swift return to Formula 1.
How it happened
Red Bull and Christian Horner decided to part ways on July 9, 2025, but the Austrian team could now be forced to hand the former main team a gigantic payout.
Salary rise
According to Planet F1, Horner's salary had risen from £8.04 million ($10.9m/€9.3m) in 2022 to £8.92 million (12.3m/€10.3m) in 2023, with his contract set to expire in 2030.
Expected amount
With more than four years left on his contract, Red Bull could have to pay Horner £35.68 million ($48.4m/€41.3m), but nothing has been confirmed by Red Bull.
Horner axed
Red Bull sacked Horner with immediate effect after 20 years as the principal of the Formula One team.
Starting in 2005
Horner was the longest-reigning Formula One principal team, having taken charge of Red Bull in their inaugural year, 2005.
"Instrumental"
"With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise, and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1."
Bringing the curtain down
The sacking of Horner brings the curtain down on one of the most successful yet tumultuous careers in F1, spanning from championship wins to employment scandals.
Vettel period
Horner oversaw two periods of dominance during his spell with Red Bull, with Horner and Sebastian Vettel figure-heading four consecutive Drivers' Championships and Constructors' Championships between 2010 and 2013.
Max Verstappen
Horner developed Max Verstappen into one of the most significant drivers of all time, leading him to four consecutive world championship victories, with his most recent one coming in 2024.
Scandals
Over the past 18 months, despite winning the championship in 2024, Red Bull has faced scandals and numerous changes, leading Verstappen to develop resentment towards the former team boss.
Inappropriate behaviour
According to Sky Sports, there were allegations of inappropriate behaviour made against him in February 2024 by a female colleague, but they were dismissed following an appeal last summer.
Key figures leaving
Red Bull has seen several high-profile figures leave over the past 18 months, including legendary designer Adrian Newey, who joined Aston Martin, and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, who joined Sauber.
Unhappy with recent results
Verstappen has grown increasingly unhappy with the recent turbo in the paddock and the team's recent track results, with Red Bull trailing McLaren by a wide range of points in the Constructors' Championship.
Will he stay now?
There were rumours of Verstappen joining Mercedes in recent weeks due to the turmoil experienced at his current team. But with Horner gone and Laurent Mekies taking over, Verstappen has buried all speculation, confirming he will stay in the team for the 2026 driving season.
