Christian Horner expresses desire to return to F1 with a competitive team capable of victory.
Christian Horner expressed that he misses Formula 1 and feels he has unresolved matters in the sport as he spoke publicly for the first time since his departure from Red Bull.
Horner, 52, was removed from his position as Red Bull team principal following the British Grand Prix in July, with his official exit finalized in September.
During his 20-year tenure with Red Bull, he led the team to remarkable achievements, securing eight drivers’ and six constructors’ championships.
However, the decision to dismiss him came a year and a half after he faced allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” from a female colleague. Horner has consistently denied these allegations and was cleared of controlling behaviour by an independent KC for a second time.
Last week, Alpine confirmed that Horner is part of a group interested in investing in the team.
Breaking his silence on Saturday at the European Motor Show in Dublin, Horner stated: “I feel like I have unfinished business in Formula 1. It didn’t conclude in the manner I would have preferred.
“However, I will not return for just any opportunity. I will only come back for something that has the potential to win.
“I do not wish to re-enter the paddock unless I have a meaningful role. I miss the sport, the people, and the team I built.
“I enjoyed 21 remarkable years in Formula 1. I had a fantastic run, achieved numerous victories, championships, and collaborated with exceptional drivers, engineers, and partners.
“I do not need to return. I could end my career now. Therefore, I would only consider returning for the right opportunity to work with outstanding individuals, in an environment where there is a shared desire to win.
“I would prefer to be a partner rather than merely a hired hand, but we will see how things develop. I am not in a hurry. I do not feel compelled to act.”
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A consortium led by Horner has been in discussions to acquire Otro Capital’s 24 percent stake in Alpine, a team that finished last in the constructors’ championship last season.
Horner has also been associated with potential moves to Aston Martin and Ferrari.
Horner remarked: “What has been intriguing is that I stepped away from Red Bull on July 8, and this is the first occasion I have actually communicated with anyone.
“(In the media) I believe I have visited every single Formula 1 team, ranging from those at the back of the grid to those in the middle and at the front. There seems to be a curiosity regarding: ‘What am I going to do? Where will I go?’
“The reality is that I cannot take any action until the spring. It is quite flattering to be continually linked with all these different teams.”
Alpine will utilize Mercedes engines from this season through at least the end of 2030.
Horner’s former competitor, Toto Wolff, serves as the CEO and co-owner of the Mercedes team.
However, Horner added: “Many people have exaggerated the rivalry I had with him.
“I hold a great deal of respect for him. He has achieved tremendous success. He has won a significant number of titles. He is very intelligent.
“We are simply different individuals, equally competitive, yet distinct. And sport lacks excitement if everyone is amicable and fond of one another.
“A rivalry is necessary to generate genuine interest. The worst scenario is if everyone is overly friendly and chummy.”
Source: espn.com
