Sky Sports F1 pundit Martin Brundle has poured cold water on suggestions that Christian Horner could make his Formula 1 comeback with Aston Martin, saying a move is unlikely right now.
Horner stepped down as Red Bull team principal last year after a hugely successful spell in charge. Since then, he has been repeatedly linked with Aston Martin. Team owner Lawrence Stroll, however, has already dismissed the rumors, previously stating that such a deal was “not happening.”
Another potential hurdle is Adrian Newey. The design legend also left Red Bull and now works as chief technical officer at Aston Martin. Reports suggest Newey is not keen to reunite with Horner, preferring a new working environment after their years of dominance together at Red Bull.
Speculation has picked up again after Aston Martin’s poor start to the 2026 season. The Silverstone team has struggled for pace and results, leading to suggestions that Stroll might change his mind and pursue Horner as an experienced leader to steady the ship.
*Brundle: Horner Wants Ownership, Not Just a Job*
On the _Sky Sports F1 Show_, Brundle addressed the rumors head-on. Asked if Horner could end up at Aston Martin, he was doubtful.
“I doubt it, because he wants a slice of a team that he goes to,” Brundle said. He believes Horner isn’t looking for a standard team principal role. Instead, he wants equity in any team he joins, giving him long-term influence and security.
When questioned whether Stroll would give Horner shares in Aston Martin, Brundle said it was possible but uncertain. “He might want to do that. Christian might be picking up some shares somewhere in one of the teams a bit more cheaply down the road, I don’t know. I think he’ll wait and get the right situation.”
Brundle’s view is that Horner is in no hurry to return. After leaving Red Bull, he can afford to wait for a role that offers both control and financial investment.
*Alpine Seen as More Realistic Option*
While Aston Martin looks unlikely, Brundle suggested Alpine could be a better fit for Horner. The Enstone squad has seen major management turnover and has backing from Otro Capital, which owns 24 percent of the team. That stake could be available if Horner wants to buy in rather than just take a management job.
Still, the situation isn’t clear-cut. Mercedes has been linked with increasing its involvement at Alpine, which could complicate any Horner move.
*Horner’s Legacy vs Aston Martin’s Struggles*
Horner built a powerhouse at Red Bull, winning multiple titles with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. His exit last year ended a defining era in F1 and immediately sparked talk about his next move.
Aston Martin impressed in 2023 and 2024 but has fallen back in 2026. Newey’s arrival was a major statement, but results have yet to follow, increasing pressure on Stroll to act.
Even so, Brundle’s comments suggest Horner to Aston Martin doesn’t add up. Stroll’s past denials, Newey’s stance, and Horner’s demand for equity all make it complicated.
For now, Horner remains on the sidelines, waiting for the right opportunity. Based on Brundle’s assessment, that return will only happen when he can secure both power and ownership. Until then, Alpine looks like the team to watch, not Aston Martin.