
Ex-Haas Boss Steiner Doubts Horner's Ferrari Fit
Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner believes Christian Horner would struggle at Ferrari, dismissing rumors that the ex-Red Bull boss would be a 'savior' for the Italian team. Steiner suggests that Ferrari's high expectations and lack of patience would hinder even a successful figure like Horner, despite recent speculation linking him to Maranello.
Why it matters:
Christian Horner's significant success at Red Bull has made him a perennial figure in F1 team principal discussions. However, Ferrari's unique organizational culture and immense pressure to win have historically challenged even the sport's most accomplished leaders. Steiner's perspective offers a reality check, highlighting the complexities of navigating Ferrari's environment, which often demands immediate miracles rather than long-term strategic rebuilding.
The Details:
- Horner's Potential: Following his departure from Red Bull after the British Grand Prix, Christian Horner was linked with various teams, including Ferrari, fueling speculation about a potential move.
- Steiner's Skepticism: Speaking on the Red Flags Podcast, Guenther Steiner stated he doesn't believe Horner would be a 'savior' for Ferrari, citing his 'gut feeling' and the inherent difficulties of the role.
- Ferrari's Culture: Steiner emphasized that Ferrari is a 'difficult place' where 'miracles are always expected,' but 'they take a bit longer' and the team's leadership 'never gives anyone enough time.' This points to a fundamental clash between Ferrari's demands and the time required for effective leadership.
- Vasseur's Position: Current Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur recently had his contract extended by President John Elkann, suggesting stability in the team's leadership for the foreseeable future. This extension indicates Elkann's understanding that rebuilding takes time, at least until the new regulations come into effect.
Between the lines:
Steiner's comments underscore the perception within F1 that Ferrari operates under a distinct set of pressures. The Scuderia's passionate fanbase and media scrutiny often translate into a volatile environment where patience is a rare commodity. For any team principal, especially one accustomed to the long-term project success seen at Red Bull under Horner, adapting to Ferrari's demand for immediate results would be a monumental task.
What's next:
For now, Steiner sees no realistic chance of Horner joining Ferrari. "I don't think Christian goes to Ferrari right now – or Ferrari wants him," he commented, adding, "Maybe in a year, but not now." This suggests that while Horner may continue to seek new opportunities in F1, a move to Maranello is unlikely in the immediate future, leaving Fred Vasseur to continue his rebuilding efforts for the 2026 regulations.
Original Article :https://f1-insider.com/formel-1-horner-ferrari-retter-steiner-dagegen-71712/