Horner linked with F1 return as Verstappen confirms new number for 2026

Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is reportedly in active talks with an F1 team about a potential grid return, while reigning champion Lando Norris' title win has forced Max Verstappen to confirm a new permanent driver number for the 2026 season. These headlines emerge as teams prepare for a major technical overhaul next year.

Why it matters:

Horner's potential return would mark a significant comeback for one of the sport's most successful and controversial figures, whose departure from Red Bull earlier in 2025 left a major void. Simultaneously, Verstappen's number change symbolizes a tangible shift in the championship hierarchy, visually cementing Norris' ascent and the end of Verstappen's four-year reign.

The details:

• Horner's Comeback Bid: A report indicates Christian Horner is engaged in discussions with a specific team regarding a return to the F1 paddock. The nature of the role and the team involved remain undisclosed.
• Verstappen's New Identity: With Lando Norris securing the 2025 drivers' championship, Max Verstappen is no longer eligible to use the number '1'. He has confirmed he will revert to a new, permanent number for the 2026 campaign, ending a four-year stint with the champion's digit.
• 2026 Rule Progress: The FIA has issued a key update ahead of the 2026 technical regulation shake-up, which introduces active aerodynamics and new power units. The new cars are scheduled to hit the track for the first time in just over a month at pre-season testing in Barcelona.
• Leclerc Backs Hamilton: Charles Leclerc has publicly dismissed concerns over Lewis Hamilton's motivation following a challenging first season with Ferrari, offering firm support for his seven-time champion teammate.
• Norris' Title Perspective: New champion Lando Norris claims his happiness stems not from dethroning Max Verstappen, but from the joy his title brings to his team and supporters, stating he "honestly doesn't care" about beating the Dutchman specifically.
• McLaren Warning: Former F1 driver Derek Daly has warned that McLaren's approach of letting Norris and Oscar Piastri race freely for the title may be unsustainable as internal competition intensifies.

What's next:

All eyes turn to the 2026 pre-season test in Barcelona, which will provide the first real glimpse of the new-generation cars and the competitive order. Horner's future and the identity of the team he is negotiating with will likely become clearer in the coming weeks, while Verstappen's new number choice is expected to be revealed soon.