Mohammed Ben Sulayem has openly expressed his support for a potential return to Formula 1 for Christian Horner, suggesting the sport would benefit from seeing the experienced team boss back in the paddock.
Horner, who led Red Bull Racing from their debut in 2005, was dismissed from his role shortly after the 2025 British Grand Prix. The decision came as a surprise to many within the sport, given his long-standing success and influence. It was ultimately made by Red Bull GmbH leadership, with Oliver Mintzlaff—CEO of Corporate Projects and New Investments—later explaining that the move was part of a broader plan to usher in a new era for the team.
Mintzlaff admitted the call to part ways with Horner was not taken lightly. According to him, it followed careful consideration over time, with the organization concluding that a fresh direction was necessary. Despite this, Horner’s departure marked the end of a hugely successful chapter, during which he oversaw multiple championship-winning campaigns and helped establish Red Bull as one of Formula 1’s dominant forces.
In recent years, however, Horner became an increasingly polarising figure. While the team continued to thrive on track—particularly through its success with drivers like Max Verstappen—off-track controversies often drew significant attention. Among them were allegations of inappropriate behaviour involving a colleague, though an internal investigation in early 2024 ultimately cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Since stepping away from the sport, Horner has remained selective about his next move, insisting he would only return for the right opportunity. He has been linked with a possible involvement at Alpine F1 Team, amid reports of interest tied to investment discussions. At the same time, his presence alongside Stefano Domenicali at the Spanish MotoGP Grand Prix sparked speculation that he might even explore roles beyond Formula 1.
Any immediate comeback would likely depend on the completion of a standard “gardening leave” period, a clause often included in senior contracts within the sport. Given that nearly ten months have passed since his exit, a return could soon become feasible.
Ben Sulayem, who has maintained regular contact with Horner, made it clear he still holds him in high regard. He emphasized that Horner’s contributions to motorsport cannot be erased and described him as a valuable figure for both his team and the wider championship. The FIA president also suggested that, despite criticism over the years, Horner’s personality and experience are part of what made him such a prominent character in Formula 1.
Addressing past controversies, Ben Sulayem indicated that they are unlikely to hinder Horner’s prospects. He noted that individuals with a proven track record and deep expertise tend to attract opportunities regardless of previous scrutiny. At the same time, he hinted that Horner himself would need to actively signal his readiness to return if he wishes to secure a new role.
Ultimately, the FIA chief believes it is only a matter of time before Horner reappears in the paddock. In his view, a comeback would feel less like a fresh start and more like a brief absence from a sport where Horner’s presence has long been significant.
