For months, ex-Red Bull team boss Christian Horner, who was fired last summer, has been linked with a return to Formula 1. However, the 52-year-old Brit’s comeback is apparently by no means set in stone.
As the “Times” reports, Horner can also easily imagine joining MotoGP.
It is no coincidence, it is said, that he paid a visit to the premier class of motorcycle racing at the weekend in Jerez, Spain, for the first time since 2005 – at the invitation of Formula 1 rights holder Liberty Media, now also the majority shareholder of MotoGP, and boss Stefano Domenicali.
Two possible scenarios are therefore conceivable for Horner: starting as a team owner or a less formal role, based on his experience from many years in Formula 1.
He already has a close relationship with Honda CEO Koji Watanabe. Both also met in Jerez.
But that’s not all: Horner is also said to have contacts with Formula E and the traditional sailing regatta America’s Cup. It is said that these could be further deepened in the coming weeks and months.
The long-time Red Bull maker has been in contact with extremely economically powerful investors for a long time.
According to “Times” information, this would not only support Horner in the event of a return to Formula 1, but also when entering another sport.
Formula 1 remains Horner’s priority, but…
Formula 1 should fundamentally continue to be Horner’s priority. However, getting started is not easy. The only realistic option for Horner at the moment is to take over the shares of the investor group Otro Capital in Alpine.
However, Horner’s intimate enemy Toto Wolff and Mercedes are also applying for this. Majority owner Renault is said to prefer a deal between Otro and the German car manufacturer, but only has a contractually agreed right of say or veto on this issue until next September.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown recently spoke out in favor of a Horner comeback in Formula 1.
“It would be great to have Christian back in the sport. He is a great doer. His track record speaks for itself,” he enthused in a media round.
