FIA president welcomes Christian Horner return to F1
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has publicly welcomed the prospect of Christian Horner returning to the Formula 1 paddock, nearly a year after his abrupt departure from Red Bull.
Horner, who had led the Milton Keynes-based outfit since their entry into the sport in 2005, last appeared in the paddock during the 2025 British Grand Prix weekend. His tenure came to a sudden end shortly after that event, when Red Bull made the shock decision to relieve him of his duties as team principal.
The move, initiated by the Austrian leadership of the company, was spearheaded by Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of Corporate Projects and New Investments. Mintzlaff later addressed the decision publicly in December, describing it as part of a broader restructuring within the organisation.
Speaking recently, Ben Sulayem indicated that Horner’s experience and long-standing contribution to Formula 1 would make him a valuable presence should he choose to return in any capacity.
“Christian has been a significant figure in this sport for many years,” the FIA president noted. “Formula 1 benefits from experienced leadership, and there is always a place for individuals who have contributed at such a high level.”
During his two-decade spell in charge, Horner oversaw Red Bull’s rise to dominance, guiding the team to multiple constructors’ and drivers’ championships. His leadership era included championship-winning campaigns with drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most successful team principals.
While no official role has yet been confirmed for Horner, speculation continues to grow over a possible return—either within Formula 1 or in a broader motorsport capacity. For now, Ben Sulayem’s comments signal that the door remains open for one of F1’s most prominent figures to make a comeback.