Former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone dismissed the idea that he would collaborate with Christian Horner to buy a stake in the Alpine team, stating there is
“more chance of Lewis winning his eighth title than that happening.”
His comments came amid ongoing speculation following recent management changes within Red Bull Racing.
These remarks were made ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, where the focus remains on both team dynamics and Lewis Hamilton’s prospects in the current championship. Ecclestone’s skepticism regarding the Alpine deal highlights the unpredictability surrounding F1’s leadership moves and Hamilton’s continuing career.
Red Bull Racing Sees Shift in Leadership After Performance Decline
On July 9, the energy drink company behind Red Bull Racing announced that Christian Horner would be replaced immediately by Laurent Mekies as CEO and team principal. Although an official reason was not provided, it is widely believed that underperformance this season and the exit of multiple key personnel factored into the decision.
Ecclestone described this management change as somewhat harsh but necessary given the circumstances. He told Sky Sports F1,
“This is how it was dealt with. I had made it known to our friends there that maybe it was a little bit ruthless, perhaps, to do it in the way they did it, but they didn’t have much choice.”
“They decided this is what they were going to do and that’s it. They had to get on and do it,”
he added, reflecting on the tough call made by Red Bull’s leadership.
Uncertain Future for Christian Horner in Formula 1
Christian Horner’s role within F1 remains unclear as the former Red Bull Racing leader has not announced his next steps. Speculation had suggested a possible joint venture with Ecclestone to acquire part of the Alpine team, but the ex-F1 CEO quickly dispelled these claims.
Ecclestone succinctly stated,
“I think there is more chance of Lewis winning his eighth title than that happening.”
He also praised Hamilton’s enduring skill, adding,
“I think Lewis has done a fantastic job. He’s still super talented. I think maybe he ought to sort of move over a little bit. It’d be terrible if something happened to him now. That’s what’s bad.”
When asked about Horner’s potential return to the sport, Ecclestone expressed uncertainty.
“I don’t know how and where or whether he wants to. Probably doesn’t want to. Because the position he really wanted at Red Bull was to own part of the team. Unless he gets somebody to put the money up to buy a team, I can’t see it happening.”
Implications for Lewis Hamilton and the Formula 1 Championship
Ecclestone’s comments underline the continuing debate over Lewis Hamilton’s potential to secure an unprecedented eighth world title despite the challenges he faces. Hamilton remains one of the most talented drivers on the grid, yet concerns about his future and physical well-being also weigh heavily on observers.
Simultaneously, the recent leadership reshuffle at Red Bull Racing might signify a period of instability for one of F1’s top teams, influencing competition for the championship. How these developments will shape the remainder of the season remains to be seen, adding tension and uncertainty ahead of forthcoming races.
