Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner could be edging closer to a dramatic return to Formula 1 after fresh comments from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem appeared to strongly support the Briton’s comeback to the sport. Recent developments around the F1 paddock have reignited speculation over Horner’s future, with several reports suggesting that influential figures inside motorsport believe his return is only a matter of time.
Horner’s departure from Red Bull Racing in 2025 shocked the Formula 1 world. After more than two decades leading the Milton Keynes-based team, the successful team boss was removed following a turbulent period that included internal political tensions, declining performance, and controversy surrounding allegations that dominated headlines throughout the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Despite that difficult exit, many within the sport still regard Horner as one of the most influential figures in modern Formula 1 history.
The latest reports indicate that FIA president Ben Sulayem has publicly expressed his admiration for Horner’s contribution to Formula 1 and made it clear that the sport “misses” him. According to multiple reports, the FIA chief revealed that he remains in regular contact with the former Red Bull boss and believes Horner will eventually make a return to the F1 paddock.
Ben Sulayem reportedly stated that Horner’s impact on the sport cannot simply disappear because of one difficult chapter. The FIA president highlighted Horner’s achievements during his long spell at Red Bull, where he guided the team to multiple constructors’ and drivers’ championships with stars such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. Under Horner’s leadership, Red Bull became one of the most dominant teams in Formula 1 history.
The comments from the FIA president have added serious momentum to ongoing rumours linking Horner with potential new projects in Formula 1. Several reports claim the 52-year-old has already held discussions regarding future involvement with possible expansion teams and investment opportunities connected to the sport’s next phase of growth.
One of the strongest rumours currently circulating involves a potential Chinese-backed Formula 1 entry. Reports have suggested that Chinese automotive giant BYD may be exploring the possibility of entering Formula 1 in the future, with Horner allegedly being considered for a senior leadership role if such a project moves forward. While nothing has been officially confirmed, the idea has generated major excitement throughout the motorsport world.
Ben Sulayem himself recently hinted that Formula 1’s next expansion could involve a Chinese manufacturer or Chinese-backed team, which only intensified speculation surrounding Horner’s involvement. The FIA president reportedly suggested that Formula 1 should continue expanding into major global automotive markets, and China represents one of the largest opportunities available.
In addition to the Chinese links, Horner has also repeatedly been connected with Alpine F1 Team. Reports over recent months suggested Horner was interested in investing in the Renault-owned team through a possible acquisition involving Otro Capital’s stake in Alpine. However, Renault executives recently denied that formal negotiations with Horner are currently taking place, even though speculation has not completely disappeared.
According to reports, Horner’s future ambitions may go beyond simply returning as a team principal. Some insiders believe the former Red Bull boss wants a larger ownership role in whichever Formula 1 project he joins next. Analysts have suggested that Horner may be looking for a long-term strategic investment opportunity rather than just another management position.
Despite his controversial exit from Red Bull, Horner’s reputation as a successful team builder remains extremely strong. During his time at the team, Red Bull secured six constructors’ championships, eight drivers’ titles, and more than 120 Grand Prix victories. His leadership transformed the team into a powerhouse capable of challenging and defeating established giants such as Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team and Scuderia Ferrari.
Many observers inside Formula 1 believe Horner’s extensive experience, political influence, and commercial understanding make him an attractive figure for any future team project. The FIA president’s latest comments have now added even greater credibility to the growing belief that Horner’s absence from Formula 1 may only be temporary.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounding the future direction of Formula 1 continues to grow as the championship prepares for new regulations and possible grid expansion plans in the coming years. With manufacturers and investors showing increasing interest in entering the sport, experienced leadership figures like Horner could become highly valuable assets.
Some reports even suggest that Horner has already increased his public appearances within motorsport circles, attending events outside Formula 1 while quietly rebuilding connections across the racing industry. This has only fuelled further rumours that preparations for a comeback may already be underway behind the scenes.
Although there is still no official confirmation regarding exactly where Horner could return, the latest comments from the FIA president appear to send a very clear message: influential figures within the sport would welcome him back. For now, Formula 1 fans are left watching closely as one of the paddock’s most successful and controversial figures edges closer to what could become one of the sport’s biggest comeback stories in recent years.
