Toto Wolff suggests that Christian Horner might struggle to make a comeback in F1.
Toto Wolff has expressed skepticism regarding Christian Horner’s potential return to Formula 1, suggesting that his competitor may be facing the “consequences” of having “shattered a lot of glass” within the sport.
Horner, 52, is seeking a pathway back to the paddock after being dismissed as Red Bull team principal following the British Grand Prix last July.
He mentioned having “unfinished business” in a sport where he led the team to eight world drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles.
Nonetheless, Aston Martin has recently ruled out a move for Horner, with Jonathan Wheatley set to join the struggling British team, while Wolff and Mercedes are currently considering acquiring 24% of Alpine’s shares from private investment firm Otro Capital.
The Enstone team confirmed in January that Horner was part of a group of investors interested in obtaining the same stake.
In an interview with the Press Association, Wolff stated: “He [Horner] has shattered quite a lot of glass, and these actions have repercussions in our microcosm. When you make statements… but that is what he has done throughout his career, and that is what he knows best.”
“Our interest in that stake is unrelated to Christian. The notion that there is a rivalry between Christian and me regarding who acquires an Alpine stake is fabricated. It would be rather unfortunate if that influenced such an investment decision.”
“We are examining it from various perspectives, and we have yet to reach any conclusions. We want to determine whether it is a sensible move.”
Wolff’s rivalry with Horner has significantly influenced F1 over the past decade as Mercedes and Red Bull competed at the highest level.
The final 18 months of Horner’s successful tenure were marked by allegations of controlling behavior from a female colleague, from which he was twice cleared.
Wolff, 54, added: “I have mixed feelings about [Horner returning to F1]. The sport lacks personalities. His character was undoubtedly controversial, which is beneficial for the sport.”
“I mentioned to [Ferrari team principal] Fred Vasseur that it requires ‘the good, the bad, and the ugly.’ Currently, only the good and the ugly remain. The bad is no longer present.”
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“Would I consider him as a potential ally or someone with shared goals? I don’t think so.”
“However, even during my greatest frustrations and anger towards him, one must remember that even your worst adversary has a best friend, so there must be some redeeming qualities.”
“If there hadn’t been such a competitive rivalry over the years, and if there had been more harmony, I am certain I could have shared a meal with him and enjoyed a laugh.”
“Throughout those years, it was simply too intense, too fierce, and events occurred that I still struggle to understand why he acted as he did.”
“I am uncertain if he is finding his way back, and in what capacity. I certainly do not wish him ill. We must acknowledge each other’s contributions. Few team principals have achieved what he has.”
“I perceive a situation where, regardless of what transpires, whether he returns to Formula One or not, I am at peace with it.”
Source: espn.com
