Christian Horner BYD talks, Danica Patrick TV return, and Nürburgring highlights

Christian Horner has held meetings with Chinese manufacturer BYD about a possible Formula 1 entry, while Danica Patrick returns to TV ahead of the Indy 500 after leaving Sky F1. Elsewhere, Max Verstappen’s Nürburgring 24 Hours appearance drew record crowds and a new nickname, and Alexander Rossi faces uncertainty after a practice crash.

Why it matters:

These stories reflect the shifting landscape of F1 – from potential new entrants reshaping the grid to the influence of top drivers on global motorsport events and the ongoing crossover between F1 and IndyCar.

The details:

• Horner & BYD: Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reportedly travelled to Cannes for meetings with BYD vice-president Stella Li. He also attended the Formula E round in Monaco, fueling speculation about a future Chinese-backed team.
• Verstappen’s impact: Driving for his own team at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, Verstappen earned the nickname “Maxipedia” from teammates for his deep motorsport knowledge. A driveshaft failure dropped the quartet to 38th, but the event sold out tickets for the first time.
  • Ex-F1 driver Timo Glock said German motorsport should “thank him 100 times” for the boost.
• Danica Patrick’s comeback: After leaving Sky F1 at the end of 2025, Patrick joined FOX Sports for Indy 500 qualifying coverage. She previously spent four years as a pundit.
• Rossi surgery: Alexander Rossi underwent surgery on his left hand and right ankle after losing control at Turn 2 during Indy 500 practice. He qualified second but his race participation is in doubt.

What’s next:

• Horner’s BYD talks could lead to an official F1 entry bid, though no timeline is set.
• Verstappen’s Nürburgring appearance may encourage more F1 drivers to compete in endurance events.
• Rossi’s recovery will determine whether he can race in Sunday’s Indy 500.