Christian Horner has been seen publicly for the first time since his departure from Red Bull, as a key strategic role opens up at his former team. This comes amidst other significant F1 developments.
Why it matters:
Red Bull's change in leadership and search for new talent, combined with critical driver market moves and team dynamics, highlight the intense evolution within Formula 1. These stories collectively offer a snapshot of the sport's ongoing strategic shifts and personal sagas.
Christian Horner's Public Return:
Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, 51, was recently spotted on holiday in Croatia with his family. This marks his first public appearance since his dramatic exit from the team last month, following the British Grand Prix. Laurent Mekies, former Racing Bulls boss, has taken over as chief executive and team principal.
Red Bull's Strategy Shift:
Red Bull Racing is actively seeking a new senior strategy engineer. This search comes as the team prepares for the departure of long-serving head of strategy Will Courtenay, who is set to join McLaren in F1 2026. Courtenay is expected to link up with McLaren around mid-2026.
Cadillac's Potential 2026 Lineup:
Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya suggests an "ideal" Cadillac F1 lineup for 2026 could feature Valtteri Bottas alongside Sergio Perez. While PlanetF1.com reported an agreement for Perez to race with Cadillac next season, Montoya advises a one-year deal for one of the drivers to maintain flexibility for 2027.
Verstappen's Prophetic Warning to Ricciardo:
A resurfaced clip shows Max Verstappen predicting a dirt bike injury for Daniel Ricciardo, his former Red Bull teammate. This prediction eerily follows Ricciardo's recent hospitalization in Australia after a motorbike accident. Ricciardo, 36, was treated at Mossman Hospital and reported to be in good spirits.
McLaren's Driver Warning:
Sky F1 pundit Martin Brundle indicates that Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are well aware of potential "payback" from McLaren should either driver "hurt the team" during their F1 2025 title battle. Brundle notes that McLaren has established "very clear" ground rules for its drivers this season, maintaining a good-natured contest with only nine points separating them.