Martin Brundle has dismissed the idea that Christian Horner is set for a Formula 1 return with Aston Martin, saying he doesn’t see it happening anytime soon.
Horner left Red Bull last year after a decorated run as team principal and has since been constantly tied to Aston Martin. Owner Lawrence Stroll has already rejected the speculation, previously saying a deal was “not happening.”
Adrian Newey’s role at Aston Martin is another complication. The celebrated designer, who also exited Red Bull, is understood to be unwilling to work with Horner again. While the pair delivered huge success together at Red Bull, Newey reportedly wants a fresh start without reviving that partnership.
Rumors reignited after Aston Martin’s slow opening to the 2026 season. The team’s lack of results has led to talk that Stroll could rethink his position and chase Horner to help reverse their fortunes.
*Brundle: Horner Seeks a Stake, Not Just a Seat*
Speaking on the _Sky Sports F1 Show_, Brundle was asked about Horner potentially joining Aston Martin and remained unconvinced.
“I doubt it, because he wants a slice of a team that he goes to,” Brundle said. He explained that Horner likely won’t accept a traditional team boss role. Instead, he’s expected to demand an ownership share to secure long-term influence.
On whether Stroll would offer Horner equity in Aston Martin, Brundle wasn’t sure. “He might want to do that,” he noted. “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.”
The takeaway: Horner is biding his time. After leaving Red Bull, he can choose carefully and is prioritizing a position with both operational power and financial investment.
*Alpine Looks Like a Better Fit*
Brundle suggested Alpine is a more plausible destination than Aston Martin. The Enstone team has gone through leadership changes and has Otro Capital owning 24% of the outfit. That stake could appeal to Horner if he wants to buy into a team rather than just manage it.
Still, Alpine’s future is uncertain. Mercedes has been linked with expanding its role there, which could block Horner’s route in.
*Context: Legacy and Current Form*
Horner’s record at Red Bull speaks for itself, with multiple championships won with Vettel and Verstappen. His exit last year closed a major chapter in F1 and immediately triggered debate over his next move.
Aston Martin showed strong form in 2023 and 2024 but has dropped off in 2026. Newey’s signing was a headline move, yet the impact hasn’t shown in the results, adding pressure on Stroll.
Despite that, Brundle’s view makes a Horner-Aston Martin link look improbable. Stroll’s public denials, Newey’s reported stance, and Horner’s desire for equity all point away from a deal.
For now, Horner is waiting for the right project — one that gives him both control and ownership. Until that appears, Aston Martin looks off the table, with Alpine remaining the team most likely to entice him back to the grid.