Toto Wolff has given a frank assessment of whether he could ever work alongside former Red Bull boss Christian Horner, admitting that while his view of his old rival has softened, a professional partnership is still unlikely.
For years, Wolff and Horner were at the heart of one of Formula 1’s fiercest rivalries. Leading Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and Red Bull Racing, the two oversaw a period of dominance in which their teams claimed 11 of the 12 Constructors’ Championships between 2013 and 2024. Their competition defined an era, with both sides constantly battling for supremacy.
The rivalry peaked during the dramatic 2021 title showdown between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. That season was filled with controversy, tension, and repeated clashes between the two team principals, both in the paddock and in the media. Even after that intense campaign, the friction between them carried on in the following seasons.
However, the dynamic changed in 2025 when Horner was removed from his role at Red Bull midway through the season. Since his departure, Wolff has shown a more reflective and respectful tone, even acknowledging that he misses the competitive presence Horner brought to Formula 1. He has also praised Horner’s achievements, recognizing his long-term success with Red Bull.
Despite this shift in attitude, Wolff remains firm on one point: he does not see a future where they work together. When asked directly, he stated that he does not believe Horner could be an ally or someone with whom he shares common objectives. Still, Wolff added a more balanced perspective, suggesting that even intense rivals have positive qualities. He noted that without the pressures of competition, their relationship might have been very different, potentially even friendly.
Meanwhile, Horner’s next move in Formula 1 is unclear. He has been linked with a return to the sport, including a possible role at Aston Martin F1 Team due to his previous connection with Adrian Newey. However, that opportunity now appears unlikely, with Jonathan Wheatley reportedly set to join the team instead.
Attention has also focused on Alpine F1 Team, where Horner has been strongly linked amid plans by Otro Capital to sell a 24 percent stake. But with Mercedes reportedly interested in acquiring that share, Horner’s chances of securing a leadership role there could also fade.
As it stands, while Wolff reflects on their rivalry with more respect, a future collaboration between the two remains off the table, and Horner’s path back into Formula 1 is becoming increasingly uncertain.
