Montoya Backs Christian Horner for Ferrari Role Amid F1 Comeback Speculation
Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has suggested that Ferrari should seriously evaluate the possibility of bringing Christian Horner into their leadership structure, describing the former Red Bull boss as a figure who could deliver long-term success—if given the necessary time and support.
Horner has been absent from the F1 paddock since his departure from Red Bull Racing shortly after last year’s British Grand Prix. His exit brought an end to a remarkable 20-year tenure at the Milton Keynes-based squad, during which he oversaw multiple championship-winning campaigns and helped transform the team into one of the most dominant forces in modern Formula 1. Red Bull has since moved forward under the leadership of Laurent Mekies, but Horner’s future remains a topic of intense speculation.
In the immediate aftermath of his departure, Horner was strongly linked with a sensational switch to Ferrari. However, the Scuderia quickly dismissed those rumours. Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc publicly voiced their confidence in current team principal Fred Vasseur, signalling stability within Ferrari’s management structure. Despite that, Montoya believes Ferrari could benefit enormously from Horner’s experience and leadership approach.
Speaking to Vision4Sport, Montoya said Horner would be a valuable asset to the Italian outfit, though he cautioned that the transition would not produce instant results. According to the Colombian, Ferrari would need to embrace a long-term vision if they were to make such a bold appointment.
“Honestly, yes,” Montoya responded when asked whether Horner could be useful for Ferrari. “But Ferrari would have to understand it would be rough for two years. This would be at least a four-year programme, and they would need to be patient.”
Montoya emphasized that rebuilding a championship-winning structure takes time, particularly within an environment as high-pressure as Ferrari’s. He suggested that the team would need to remain united and avoid internal criticism or public negativity during the early phases of any restructuring process.
“They would have to be supportive while the team is rebuilding,” Montoya explained. “Everyone would need to appreciate that they are heading somewhere strong together. You can’t have people running their mouths and talking badly about it. The media thrives when bosses start speaking out against each other.”
Montoya pointed to the examples set by Mercedes and McLaren, praising both teams for maintaining unity behind the scenes. He highlighted how strong internal alignment and consistent messaging help create a stable environment for drivers and technical staff alike.
“This is where Mercedes and McLaren do a mega job,” he added. “They stay united, stay quiet, and support their drivers. If a young driver like Kimi Antonelli crashes, they say, ‘He’s young, he’s talented, it’s experience.’ That kind of backing makes a huge difference.”
While Ferrari remains one of the most glamorous and historic names in Formula 1, the pressure surrounding the Maranello-based team often intensifies scrutiny when results do not immediately follow expectations. Montoya believes that any Horner-led rebuild would require resilience from both management and fans.
Despite endorsing Ferrari as a potential destination, Montoya ultimately feels another team might present a more logical opportunity for Horner’s return. Alpine has been most consistently linked with the 52-year-old in recent months, and Montoya sees the Enstone-based outfit as a strong strategic fit.
“Alpine would be the best choice,” he stated. “They have the Mercedes power unit and are based in England. They’ve got everything in place.”
Montoya also noted the geographical advantage, with Alpine’s facilities located relatively close to Red Bull’s headquarters. That proximity, he suggested, could ease Horner’s transition back into the competitive environment he knows so well.
“They’re only about 20 or 30 minutes from Red Bull,” Montoya said. “If he could get involved with that team, it could do wonders for them.”
Alpine has endured inconsistent performances in recent seasons and continues to search for a structure capable of returning the team to the front of the grid. With a strong technical base and access to competitive power units, Montoya believes the right leadership could unlock significant potential.
For now, Horner’s next move remains uncertain. Whether Ferrari revisits the idea of a high-profile appointment or Alpine takes the initiative, the prospect of his return adds another intriguing storyline to an already evolving Formula 1 landscape. One thing appears clear from Montoya’s perspective: in the right environment, with patience and unity, Christian Horner could once again become a transformative figure in the sport.
