F1 Race Winner Hints Horner Could Be Ferrari's Missing Piece for Success

Former F1 race winner Johnny Herbert has suggested that Ferrari should consider bringing Christian Horner into their ranks, believing he possesses the 'winning formula' necessary to rejuvenate the Scuderia's fortunes. This comes amid ongoing speculation about Ferrari's leadership despite Fred Vasseur's recent contract extension.

Why it matters:

Ferrari has struggled to consistently challenge for championships, and Herbert's comments highlight a perceived need for a transformative figure. Bringing in someone with Horner's proven track record of building and sustaining a dominant F1 team could significantly alter Ferrari's trajectory and the competitive landscape of the sport.

The Details:

• Herbert's Endorsement: Johnny Herbert, a three-time F1 race winner, stated in an interview with a gambling website that Ferrari "need to get someone who's been able to create a winning formula, and that potentially points to Christian Horner."
• Personnel Focus: Herbert emphasized the importance of attracting the right personnel to ensure the fastest car, drawing a parallel to the rumored push for Adrian Newey.
• Vasseur's Position: While current Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur recently signed a contract extension, speculation about his future persists, particularly given Ferrari's challenging performance.
• Horner's Broader Ambitions: During the Singapore Grand Prix, Aston Martin CEO Andy Cowell hinted that Horner has been in contact with multiple F1 teams. Reports suggest Horner is seeking a return to F1 in an ownership or shareholder capacity, rather than as a team principal, a role he held at Red Bull for over two decades after receiving a significant payoff from the team.

Between the Lines:

Herbert's suggestion underscores the intense pressure and high expectations at Ferrari. Despite Vasseur's efforts, the team's inconsistent performance keeps the 'who's next' conversation alive. Horner's extensive experience leading Red Bull to multiple championships makes him an attractive, albeit likely expensive and challenging, prospect for any team aiming for the top.

What's Next:

It remains to be seen whether Ferrari would seriously pursue Horner, especially given his reported preference for an ownership role and Vasseur's extended contract. However, the continuous rumors reflect the deep desire within the F1 community for Ferrari to return to its former glory. Any move involving a figure of Horner's stature would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the paddock and could significantly impact the sport's power dynamics.