Alpine driver Pierre Gasly has expressed his belief that Christian Horner will return to Formula 1 with another team after being dismissed from his role at Red Bull earlier this month. Gasly highlighted Horner’s extensive experience and successful track record as reasons why he expects a swift comeback in the sport’s leadership ranks.
Christian Horner’s Legacy at Red Bull
Christian Horner had been at the helm of Red Bull Racing since the team’s inception in 2005, steering the outfit to an impressive six constructors’ championships and eight drivers’ titles. His two-decade leadership played a pivotal role in turning Red Bull into one of the sport’s dominant teams. However, Horner’s tenure ended shortly after the British Grand Prix when Laurent Mekies was promoted from Red Bull’s junior team to replace him as team principal and CEO.
Gasly’s Experience Working Under Horner
Pierre Gasly joined Red Bull’s senior lineup in 2019 and worked directly under Horner, though his time at the team was brief, lasting just 12 races due to underwhelming results. Despite losing his seat, Gasly remained within the Red Bull system, securing a memorable win at the 2020 Italian Grand Prix with AlphaTauri before transferring to Alpine in 2023. Gasly emphasized his ongoing respect for Horner’s contributions to the sport despite their limited contact during his time at Red Bull.
Respect for Horner’s Accomplishments and Leadership
Gasly commented on Horner’s undeniable qualities as a team leader, underscoring the significance of his achievements over two decades. He said,
“I think his qualities are undoubtable because when you’ve got the number of championships in 20 years of career,”
—Pierre Gasly
He added,
“You can only respect all the success with the team, and what he’s done with Red Bull Racing over there, it’s very remarkable and very impressive. He is very, very good at what he’s been doing with the team. I’m sure we’re gonna see him somewhere because with that sort of experience and skills, I’m sure some teams will be interested in Christian.”
Gasly also described his own relationship within the Red Bull organization, noting closer ties with Helmut Marko, the team’s driver coach, especially from Gasly’s early career. He shared,
“I was closer to Helmut [Marko] just from the fact that it’s more the link between the drivers. Helmut came to coach me when I was 17. I signed a contract with him. I got to know Christian a bit later through the process and being part of the academy side. Less contact with him, but still some and for sure he has been doing very well with Red Bull.”
—Pierre Gasly
Implications and Expectations Moving Forward
Christian Horner’s departure marks the end of a significant era for Red Bull, but his proven leadership and strategic success make him a valuable prospect for other Formula 1 teams aiming to enhance their competitive edge. Pierre Gasly’s anticipation of Horner’s return reflects the respect held for the British team principal’s abilities and implies that his influence in the sport is likely far from over. Teams seeking to rise in the standings may view Horner as a key figure to lead them toward future championships.
