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F1 News Today: Christian Horner makes return decision as legend linked with stunning McLaren move
Christian Horner has been in talks with nearly every team on the F1 grid regarding a potential return to the sport after leaving Red Bull in 2025. Speculation surrounds his connection with teams like Ferrari, Aston Martin, and now Alpine. Horner is reportedly looking to acquire a 24 percent stake in Alpine currently held by Otro Capital, with negotiations confirmed by team executive Flavio Briatore.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown is persistently trying to bring back two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso to the team. Alonso previously raced for McLaren in F1 during 2007 and between 2015-2018, as well as competing for McLaren’s IndyCar team in 2020. As Alonso’s contract with McLaren approaches its final year, Brown is keen on reuniting with the Spanish driver for another shot at winning the Indy500.
Lando Norris, the reigning F1 world champion, has expressed concerns about potential problems arising from the 2026 regulation changes, comparing them to issues faced in F1 during the 1980s. The sport is undergoing significant regulation changes this year, affecting power units and aerodynamic designs. Norris fears a resurgence of past problems due to these new regulations.
Adrian Newey, team principal of Aston Martin F1, has hinted at the possibility of the team fielding three distinct cars in 2026. Under his leadership, the team is aiming to capitalize on gains against competitors with the new regulations taking effect. Despite the team’s status at the beginning of the season, Newey suggests that it may not have a significant impact on their performance throughout the year.
Concerns have emerged about potential frustrations for fans during F1 qualifying sessions in the 2026 season, triggered by comments from Haas F1 driver Esteban Ocon during pre-season testing. The new power unit regulations could lead to increased “lifting and coasting” during races, and Ocon has indicated that this may extend to qualifying sessions as well. This could affect the traditional excitement of qualifying events where cars showcase their maximum performance.
