F1 News Today: Mercedes Clear Path for Christian Horner as Monaco Grand Prix Change Confirmed
Fresh developments in Formula 1 have placed former Red Bull team boss Christian Horner back in the spotlight, while another significant change involving the iconic Monaco Grand Prix has officially been confirmed.
According to recent reports, Mercedes have withdrawn from discussions to purchase a minority stake in Alpine F1 Team currently held by investment group Otro Capital. The German manufacturer was previously viewed as a potential rival bidder, but negotiations reportedly stalled due to disagreements over the team’s valuation.
The move is seen as a major boost for Horner’s hopes of returning to Formula 1. Since his departure from Red Bull last year, the 52-year-old has been linked with several projects, with Alpine emerging as one of the strongest possibilities. Reports suggest that Horner and a group of investors could now have a clearer path toward acquiring a stake in the Enstone-based team after Mercedes stepped away from the process.
While Horner’s future continues to generate speculation across the paddock, attention is also turning toward Monaco, where several notable changes are arriving for the 2026 season.
One of the biggest alterations is the Grand Prix’s place on the calendar. Monaco has officially moved to the first weekend of June, ending its traditional clash with the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600. The race also remains secured on the Formula 1 calendar for years to come following its long-term contract extension.
Additionally, the FIA has confirmed that “Straight Mode”—the 2026 successor to the DRS system—will not be used during the Monaco weekend. This marks the first time since movable rear-wing assistance was introduced that such a system will be absent from a Formula 1 race weekend. Officials believe Monaco’s unique layout makes the feature less relevant, creating a distinctive challenge for drivers around the narrow street circuit.
Preparations in the principality are already underway, with the city transforming from everyday public roads into one of motorsport’s most famous venues. The event remains one of Formula 1’s crown jewels and continues to attract global attention despite ongoing debates about overtaking opportunities and race strategy.
For now, two storylines dominate the headlines: Christian Horner’s possible route back into Formula 1 ownership and management, and a Monaco Grand Prix entering a new era with major calendar and sporting changes. Both developments could have significant implications for the future direction of the sport as the 2026 season continues to unfold.