Christian Horner responds to 'flattering' Ferrari links after chaos behind the scenes at Red Bull

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Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 31/05/2025

- 14:47

The Briton has responded to talk that he could leave Red Bull, with his current deal due to expire next year

Christian Horner has dismissed speculation linking him to Ferrari, reaffirming his complete commitment to Red Bull despite being out of contract next year.

The Red Bull team principal is reportedly admired by Ferrari chairman John Elkann, with rumours suggesting a potential move to the Italian team.


When asked directly about Ferrari's interest, Horner stated: "Of course it's always flattering to be associated with other teams but my commitment 100 per cent is with Red Bull.

"It always has been and certainly will be for the long-term."

Christian Horner Red Bull

Christian Horner has dismissed speculation linking him to Ferrari, reaffirming his complete commitment to Red Bull despite being out of contract next year

REUTERS

He added humorously: "My Italian is worse than Flavio [Briatore's] English, so how on earth would that work?"

Horner is recognised as one of the most successful team principals in Formula One history, having overseen eight drivers' titles and six constructors' championships during his tenure at Red Bull.

The 51-year-old British team boss most recently signed a new contract in 2021, but his current deal expires next year.

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Christian Horner

Christian Horner's contract at Red Bull is due to expire next year, something that's fuelled talk of a potential move to Ferrari

REUTERS

His impressive track record at the Milton Keynes-based team has made him a highly sought-after figure in the paddock, with speculation about his future intensifying as his contract situation remains unresolved.

Red Bull has experienced significant internal tensions in recent years, particularly involving Max Verstappen's father Jos and senior adviser Helmut Marko.

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The infighting reached a critical point when four-time world champion Max Verstappen declared he would quit the team if Marko was sacked following rumours of a potential suspension.

The tensions have created a challenging environment within the team, with Verstappen's threat highlighting the depth of loyalty and political divisions at the highest levels of the organisation.

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A recent clash between Horner and Marko emerged over driver selection following Sergio Perez's departure from the team.

The disagreement saw the two senior figures backing different candidates for the vacant second seat alongside Verstappen.

Marko is said to have preferred Liam Lawson for the position, whilst Horner was keen on Franco Colapinto after the Argentine driver replaced Logan Sargeant at Williams.

Max Verstappen Christian Horner

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen will be hopeful that Red Bull can perform at the peak of their powers during Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix

REUTERS

This latest dispute underscores the ongoing power struggles within Red Bull's management structure, adding another layer to the internal tensions that have plagued the team in recent seasons as Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix creeps closer.

Verstappen will be hoping to close the gap on the likes of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris at the top of the standings, having struggled to live up to his usual standards so far this term.