Christian Horner's F1 Return: Alpine 'Compromise' Plan Teased

Christian Horner, who recently settled his ties with Red Bull for $100 million, is rumored to be making an F1 comeback as early as the 2026 season. Amidst speculation about his next move, former F1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella suggests a 'compromise' management team at Alpine, potentially pairing Horner with Flavio Briatore.

Why it matters:

After a highly successful but controversial tenure at Red Bull, Christian Horner's potential return to Formula 1 could significantly impact the sport's management landscape. His track record of leading Red Bull to multiple championships makes him a sought-after figure, and his collaboration with seasoned F1 strategist Flavio Briatore at a struggling team like Alpine could signal a significant shift in their fortunes.

The Details:

• Christian Horner was dismissed from Red Bull after more than 20 years, during which he led the team to six Constructors' and eight Drivers' championships.
• He has officially cut ties with Red Bull, reaching a $100 million settlement, which frees him to return to F1 from the 2026 season.
• It is widely believed that Horner may pursue a team-ownership role, similar to Toto Wolff's position at Mercedes.
• Alpine as a Potential Destination: The Enstone-based Alpine team is facing an ongoing struggle, currently at the bottom of the championship. With persistent doubts over current owner Renault's long-term commitment, Alpine presents a potential opportunity for Horner.
• Relationship with Flavio Briatore: Horner has a close relationship with Flavio Briatore, the former Renault F1 team principal who recently returned to Alpine as an executive adviser.
• Fisichella's Endorsement: Giancarlo Fisichella, who raced for Renault/Benetton, believes a combination of Horner and Briatore could be an effective partnership for Alpine, calling it a 'good compromise'.
  • Fisichella highlighted Horner's successful past, stating, "He was Red Bull's team principal for 20 years and he won everything. For sure, one of the best team principals in the sport."
• Briatore's Influence: Despite controversy surrounding his return and decisions like the repurposing of Renault's engine facility, Fisichella maintains that Briatore is "the right man" to turn Alpine's situation around, citing their past championship successes together.
• Future Engine Partnership: Alpine is set to switch to customer Mercedes engines for the 2026 season, despite Renault's continued involvement as majority owners.

Between the lines:

While Briatore himself downplayed the rumors of Horner joining Alpine, Toto Wolff humorously characterized a potential reunion of Briatore, Horner, and Bernie Ecclestone as 'the mafia reunited,' suggesting it would generate significant buzz and content for F1. This highlights the recognition of these personalities' impact on the sport and the potential excitement their combined presence could create.

What's next:

Horner's immediate focus is reportedly on his family, but the speculation about his return, particularly to a team like Alpine, will likely intensify as the 2026 season approaches. If a partnership with Briatore materializes, it could bring much-needed leadership and experience to Alpine, potentially altering the competitive dynamics of Formula 1.