P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Horner to ‘move on’ after Red Bull deal agreed
Following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last weekend, Christian Horner officially departed from Red Bull, sparking discussions about his next move in Formula 1. Horner had been removed from his daily duties as team principal back in July, leading to negotiations for a settlement over the past few months. His departure was announced after Max Verstappen’s victory in Baku, reigniting talks of a potential comeback under his replacement, Laurent Mekies.
Reports of Horner’s generous severance package have raised speculation about a possible return to the paddock as early as 2026, with former champion Jacques Villeneuve expressing support for his departure. Villeneuve believes that both parties being free of obligations could pave the way for new opportunities for Horner in F1 or other top teams in the future. After serving as Red Bull’s team principal and CEO for two decades, Horner’s next move is uncertain as options within the paddock seem limited, with Alpine being suggested as a potential landing spot once he is free to explore new roles. Time will tell if Horner will make a comeback to Formula 1 as the sport enters a new era in 2026 with revised regulations.
