Ferrari’s rumored interest in appointing Christian Horner as their new team principal could cost them the loyalty of seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, according to insights from Formula 1 analyst Will Buxton. This development surfaced amid recent upheavals in top F1 team management, notably Horner’s sudden departure from Red Bull.
On Wednesday, Red Bull announced the immediate exit of Christian Horner, who had been at the team’s helm since 2005, with Laurent Mekies stepping up as the new team principal while transitioning to Red Bull Racing CEO. The unexpected move has sparked widespread speculation about Horner’s next destination, with Ferrari and Alpine both emerging as potential suitors amid pressure on current Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur.
The Italian media has questioned Vasseur’s future at Ferrari, amplifying rumors that the Scuderia may seek experienced leadership to sustain their competitive edge. Meanwhile, Alpine is also considering new leadership after Oli Oakes’ sudden departure left Flavio Briatore acting as their de facto principal.
Buxton, however, leans toward the idea that Horner’s return to F1 is more probable with Alpine given his close ties with Briatore, rather than with Ferrari.
“I can’t imagine this is the last that we will see or hear of Christian Horner,”
Buxton said on The Sports Agents podcast.
“There have been rumours already this year that he was being courted by Alpine, rumours linking him to Ferrari. I think that one’s more of a stretch than the Alpine one. He’s very close with Flavio Briatore. That one would seem to be more logical for me.”
—Will Buxton, F1 and IndyCar analyst
Despite Buxton’s theory, if Ferrari does decide to bring Horner on board, he warns that Hamilton would likely leave the team, suggesting an irreconcilable difference in their working relationship.
The aftermath of Horner’s departure from Red Bull and its F1 implications
Christian Horner’s exit from Red Bull marks a significant shift in Formula 1’s team structures. Horner has been central to Red Bull’s success, especially during the intense rivalry with Mercedes that peaked in the 2021 championship battles. Despite this, no overt tension between Horner and Hamilton has been reported.
“If they replaced Fred with Christian Horner, I don’t think Lewis would be a Ferrari driver for much longer!”
—Will Buxton, F1 and IndyCar analyst
One scenario gaining traction involves Horner rejoining Formula 1 leadership at Alpine, potentially as a shareholder. This would mirror Toto Wolff’s dual role as both Mercedes team principal and a significant owner stake-holder. Horner’s recent career developments include witnessing Adrian Newey, a key Red Bull design expert, move to Aston Martin as part of an ownership deal.
However, financial experts express doubts about Horner’s ability to buy into Alpine, a team currently valued near $1.5 billion. Although Horner could receive over £50 million following his Red Bull exit, his net worth reportedly peaks around $50 million, far less than the millions Toto Wolff commands.
“There might be other suitors for Alpine as well, so it’s not a done deal that Christian will be able to buy into Alpine,”
“And also, where does his backing come from? Because I don’t think, albeit a very wealthy man, he’s got the means that Toto Wolff has.”
—David Croft, Sky F1 commentator
Wolff’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $1.8 billion, underlining the financial gulf between the two figures and the differing investment capacities for team ownership.
Broader consequences for Ferrari and Formula 1’s future leadership
Ferrari’s potential staffing upheaval risks disrupting one of F1’s most crucial alliances. Hamilton’s reluctance to work under Horner’s leadership could push the Scuderia into another driver shuffle, complicating their strategy heading into upcoming seasons. Meanwhile, Alpine’s leadership search remains a focal point, with Horner’s possible involvement contingent on navigating substantial financial challenges.
The shifting leadership dynamics at Red Bull, Ferrari, and Alpine underline a period of volatility within Formula 1 management, with long-term effects still unfolding. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely as these top teams resolve their leadership questions, likely shaping competitive rivalries and strategic alignments in the years ahead.
