Christian Horner has found a new role outside Formula 1. The former Red Bull team principal will work as a special advisor for ‘investments in premium sports’ at investment fund Oakley Capital. With this, the Brit joins a company that already has interests in, among others, sailing team Athena Racing, active in the America’s Cup, and various brands within padel and golf. Behind the scenes, he is said to continue working on a return to Formula 1.
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“Sports companies benefit from a growing global audience, especially now that more and more people are embracing a healthier, more active lifestyle,” Horner responded in an official press release. “I have known and respected Peter Dubens (founder of Oakley Capital, ed.) and his team for years and have always admired their approach to building ambitious companies. Oakley Capital has also built a strong reputation in the sports and consumer sector. I look forward to working with them in the future and sharing my experience. Hopefully, I can support the next generation of leading sports companies.”
Dubens is also enthusiastic about Horner’s arrival. “Christian Horner is widely known as a very successful leader in the international sports world,” he added. “His track record, expertise, and commercial instinct will be invaluable as we further expand our sports portfolio. We look forward to working with him and unlocking these opportunities further.”
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F1 return
Horner’s move comes at a time when he is actively working on a return to Formula 1. The Brit has been linked in recent weeks to several projects within the sport. Reportedly, he is now in serious talks with the Chinese BYD about a possible twelfth F1 team. At the same time, Alpine remains an important option, with Horner focusing on acquiring the 24% stake that Otro Capital wants to sell. According to reports, a consortium around Horner already has the necessary financial resources.
In the paddock, people are open to his return. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated in Miami that he is ‘in close contact’ with Horner. “He was good for his team and good for the sport. We would like to see him back,” said the Emirati.
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