Christian Horner suffers major blow to F1 return as former Red Bull teammate gets top role

The former Red Bull chief, who departed his position in July after more than two decades, had been strongly linked to taking on leadership at Aston Martin.

Horner's exit from Red Bull followed reported difficulties, including the team's early-season performance issues, complications surrounding Liam Lawson's seat, and questions about Max Verstappen's future.

Since then, multiple Formula One teams have expressed interest in securing his services, with Aston Martin emerging as the most probable destination.

The announcement on Wednesday that Adrian Newey would assume the team principal position has blocked Horner's immediate prospects of returning to the sport in that capacity.

Despite this setback, opportunities remain for Horner to join the team in a more senior capacity than Newey, potentially including an equity stake.

Newey personally guided Horner through Aston Martin's facilities earlier this week, according to reports, suggesting ongoing discussions.

Lawrence Stroll, the team's owner, has pursued Horner for approximately six or seven years and remains willing to present a substantial financial package, including shareholding that could prove significant for his future standing within the organisation.

Nevertheless, Horner faces alternative prospects that might prove more appealing.

Ferrari's leadership position, the possibility of acquiring Alpine, or establishing a twelfth Formula One team all remain under consideration.

Associates have reportedly counselled him against hasty decisions, recommending he carefully evaluate his options given the considerable demand for his expertise across multiple teams.

Aston Martin revealed on Wednesday that the 66-year-old design legend Newey would take charge of the team from 2026, marking his inaugural appointment to such a position despite decades of technical excellence in the sport.

The British designer, who joined Aston Martin from Red Bull in March this year, will combine his existing managing technical partner responsibilities with team principal duties.

His appointment represents a significant shift in Formula One's leadership landscape, particularly given his unparalleled record of success.

Newey's design expertise contributed to 12 drivers' championships and 13 constructors' titles across Williams, McLaren and Red Bull.

The restructuring coincides with major regulatory changes scheduled for 2026 and Aston Martin's transition to Honda's works engine partner next year.

Andy Cowell will transition to a newly established chief strategy officer position after 14 months leading the team as CEO and team principal.

The 56-year-old implemented essential structural modifications to prepare the organisation for its transformation into a full works team ahead of the 2026 regulatory overhaul.

His new responsibilities will centre on optimising technical partnerships between the team, Honda, Aramco and Valvoline, whilst ensuring smooth integration of the new power unit.

Cowell will report directly to executive chairman Lawrence Stroll in this capacity.

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