Christian Horner announces Australian speaking tour amid F1 return speculation

Former Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner is launching a speaking tour in Australia ahead of the 2026 F1 season, marking his most public engagement since his controversial exit from the team last year. The tour fuels ongoing rumors about his potential return to the Formula 1 paddock in a new capacity.

Why it matters:

Horner's departure from Red Bull after nearly two decades marked a seismic shift in the team's leadership, ending an era of unprecedented success. His continued visibility and rumored interest in Alpine suggest he is actively seeking a route back into the sport's inner circle, keeping his influence and future intentions a central topic of discussion as the new season approaches.

The details:

• Horner was replaced by Laurent Mekies in July of last year following internal pressures and controversies both on and off the track.
• Despite his exit, he has remained connected to the F1 world, including a reported meeting with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and expressed interest in investing in the Alpine F1 team.
• The speaking tour, titled "A Special Evening with Christian Horner: Life in Formula One… and Beyond," will feature live Q&A sessions.
  • Tour Dates: Kicks off in Melbourne at Hamer Hall on February 24, followed by Sydney’s TikTok Entertainment Centre on February 26, and concludes in Perth at the Riverside Theatre on March 2.
• Horner stated the shows are an opportunity to "unpack my career" and reflect on the "big moments" from his time leading Red Bull to eight drivers' and six constructors' championships.
• Tickets for the events are now on sale, starting at AU$109.

What's next:

The tour positions Horner back in the spotlight just days before the first Grand Prix weekend of 2026, inevitably sparking further speculation about his next move. While a direct return to a top team principal role seems unlikely in the short term, his strategic meetings and public engagements indicate he is positioning himself for a significant advisory, investment, or leadership role within the sport, with Alpine frequently mentioned as a potential destination.