Ex-Red Bull boss Christian Horner dials up teams in bid for F1 return: Reports

The firing of Christian Horner from Red Bull in July this year after a turbulent season has led to his name being reportedly popping up over whispered deals and high-stakes drama. The ousted Red Bull’s

team principal’s 20 year stint delivered eight drivers’ titles and constructors’ crown, just weeks ago he reportedly pocketed a £52 million severance package from the team. On September 22, 2025, Horner and Red Bull issued a joint statement marking the end of his tenure, originally contracted until 2030. As engines roar to life under Singapore's skyline this weekend, Horner's next move looms large.

Aston Martin CEO Andy Cowell hinted that Christian Horner’s name dominated the grapevine amid the neon glow of the Formula 1’s night race. “It looks as though Christian is ringing up pretty much every team owner at the moment,” Cowell reportedly revealed during a pre-press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix, as per BBC Sport. “I can clearly say there are no plans for the involvement of Christian in an operational or investment role in the future,” Cowell added firmly, though he reportedly left a sliver of ambiguity by noting, “Who knows what will happen?” The British outfit already has Adrian Newey, Horner's former Red Bull collaborator and it claims to be forging ahead with its own blueprint, emphasizing a “strong setup” under Cowell's leadership.

Christian Horner also contacted Haas and Alpine to pave the way for an F1 comeback: Reports

Reports claim that eyeing a comeback, Christian Horner contacted Haas and Alpine F1 teams as well, however, they also turned down such speculations. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu reportedly confirmed direct overtures from Horner and said, “He approached us, but nothing has gone any further. It is finished.” Alpine’s Managing Director Steve Nielsen also treaded carefully and reportedly said, “Everything I know is there are no plans for Christian to come to Alpine, but that doesn't mean it won't happen.” Horner's frenetic outreach comes amid a paddock buzzing with uncertainty. Fired abruptly in July after a turbulent 2025 season that saw Red Bull slump to fourth in the constructors' standings with 288 points adrift of leaders McLaren, Christian Horner has been a free agent in name only until now.

Reports claim that the £52 million payout not only cushions Horner's next chapter but clears his non-compete clause by mid-2026, paving the way for an F1 comeback. Mid-2026 clearance means he could shadow teams through winter testing, building alliances in the wings. It is said that now, with financial firepower and a Rolodex of racing royalty, Horner is casting a wide net. The saga of Christian Horner and Red Bull reportedly ended with former posting on Instagram saying, “Leading Red Bull Racing has been an honour and privilege,” bidding farewell to the Milton Keynes squad he transformed from upstart to juggernaut.