FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem sees a possible new role for Christian Horner within Formula 1. The former Red Bull team principal was dismissed in 2025 after a period of sporting setbacks. Moreover, he caused controversy in 2024 due to allegations of inappropriate behavior. Nevertheless, Horner has a proven track record, and Sulayem is convinced that a potential return would benefit the sport.
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Horner had been at the helm of Red Bull’s F1 team since 2005 and led the team to eight driver titles and six constructor titles. However, last year he was abruptly dismissed after the British GP. It is now known that he is cautiously working behind the scenes on a comeback. Alpine currently seems the most obvious option for Horner, although he is also being linked to a top position within the MotoGP organization. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, a former ally of the 52-year-old Brit, however, wishes him a quick comeback in Formula 1.
“Who can erase the name of Christian Horner from motorsport and Formula 1? That’s impossible,” he told the media in Miami. “He has always been successful. But success also has enemies, as we know. If you ask me, we miss him in this sport, and personally I really miss him. Fortunately, we keep in close contact.” About Horner’s role within Formula 1, he added: “He was good for the team and good for the sport. We would love to see him back.”
Just a matter of time?
Sulayem hinted that it is only a matter of time before Horner makes his comeback: “Someone like him always finds his way back.” The Emirati is aware of the Brit’s controversial past but emphasizes that a character like Horner benefits the sport. “He has a pure heart. I always tell him: ‘You talk too much, but you mean no harm.’ And he really wants to come back,” the FIA president stressed. “As I said, I speak to him regularly and I have the feeling he is coming back. Once he’s back, it will be as if he just went on vacation.”
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Apart from the allegations of inappropriate behavior – of which Horner was acquitted – the Englishman regularly caused a stir in the paddock. Especially the rivalry with Toto Wolff was often widely discussed. According to Sulayem, however, this history is overshadowed by Horner’s successes. “If someone has such a past, you don’t have to doubt his credibility,” he noted. “People will come to him. I just want to share my thoughts,” Sulayem concluded. “His record is impressive and I like him. He is a distinctive figure in the sport.”
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