Paddock divided as rumors about Horner's future circulate.

      “It’s crucial to have some genuinely dominant team principals.”

      The aftermath of Christian Horner's departure from Red Bull continues to create divisions within the Formula 1 paddock and stimulate discussions about his future plans. McLaren CEO Zak Brown stirred controversy before the August break by stating publicly that F1 would be better without the former Red Bull leader. Dutch commentator Allard Kalff criticized Brown's remarks, saying, "He’s on the ground, and people are continuing to kick him." Former Bridgestone engineer Kees van de Grint echoed this sentiment, expressing disbelief at Brown's statement. He believes Brown's satisfaction stems from both personal and strategic motivations, suggesting that the new regulations—specifically, the new Concorde Agreement—will prevent the ownership of two teams, referencing Horner’s previous influence over both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls. "He performed his role effectively and intelligently. Not everyone may appreciate that, but it doesn’t justify the claim that 'We’re better off without him.' You should focus on your own responsibilities and your team," he stated.

      Horner, aged 51, had previously been associated with Ferrari and Cadillac—both of which are no longer options—but is rumored to be negotiating a position with Alpine alongside Flavio Briatore, with potential involvement from Bernie Ecclestone. Such an arrangement could provide Horner with partial ownership of a team, a long-desired goal that insiders suggest contributed to Red Bull's decision to part ways with him. Former Red Bull driver Robert Doornbos revealed on the Pit Talk podcast that Brown's animosity toward Horner is well-known. "He’s never been particularly friendly with Christian Horner, let’s be frank. And I don’t think Toto Wolff has much of a friendship with him either."

      However, Wolff at least acknowledged Horner’s achievements, referring to him as one of the last "dinosaurs" among team principals—a nod to figures like Flavio Briatore and Eddie Jordan. Doornbos concurred, stating: "Character is also necessary. I know Christian personally, and I think he’s a fantastic person. When you have a paddock filled with individuals like Laurent Mekies, who are great but not quite like Flavio, Eddie Jordan, and probably now Christian Horner, it impacts the sport. It’s essential to have some truly dominant team principals."

      Doornbos is also confident that Horner will make a comeback: "Once this sport becomes a part of you, saying goodbye is not an option," the Dutchman remarked. "I don’t picture Christian taking on a political role at the FIA—I don’t believe that suits him. He’s more of a racer. He enjoys spending his Sundays at a Grand Prix."