Christian Horner Seeks F1 Team Stake for Comeback Amid Mixed Responses

Christian Horner, recently departed from his role as Red Bull team principal, is actively seeking to return to Formula 1, aiming to secure a stake in a team rather than just a management position. Despite discussions with several teams including Aston Martin, Haas, and Alpine, no firm arrangements have been made, with key figures from these teams indicating no current plans to involve Horner operationally or as an investor. Horner's desire is to have ownership involvement, similar to Toto Wolff's role at Mercedes, which presents challenges due to resistance from existing teams wary of diluting prize money shares. He has been engaging with significant business groups and potential financial backers in efforts to create or join a team, with some speculation about him possibly establishing his own team, although this would entail substantial financial costs and face opposition. While Horner remains a prominent figure in F1 circles, the pathway back into the paddock remains uncertain as teams weigh the commercial and competitive implications of his return. His next move is closely watched, with the earliest possible return expected in the 2026 season after his contractual restrictions expire.