Several options are being speculated for Horner's return to F1.

      "It is indeed true that he reached out to us."

      Speculation is rife in Singapore regarding Christian Horner’s upcoming decisions after the former Red Bull team principal received an estimated payout of $80-100 million. This severance agreement permits Horner, 51, to re-enter Formula 1 as soon as mid-2026, prompting discussions of three potential scenarios in the paddock.

      One scenario involves Haas, although team principal Ayao Komatsu quickly rejected the notion. "It’s true that he approached us and one of our representatives had an initial, let's say, conversation. But that was it. Nothing is progressing any further. I have nothing else to add on that subject," the Japanese official stated.

      Austria’s oe24 reported that Horner has even been considering establishing the 12th team in Formula 1, with discussions believed to be ongoing with potential investors. Entry before 2028 is deemed unlikely, but insiders are convinced that Horner is eager to return as team principal of his own venture.

      The most plausible scenario appears to be a reunion with Adrian Newey at Aston Martin. The two are said to have mended their previously broken relationship, even attending a recent Oasis concert together, while Horner has past ties to Aston through team sponsorship and the Valkyrie hypercar initiative.

      Aston Martin principal Andy Cowell did not dismiss the rumors when approached by Auto Motor und Sport. "To my knowledge, Christian is currently taking a break. However, he has a passion for this sport, and his achievements are well-known. Whatever path he chooses, we wish him success."

      When asked if the Silverstone-based team has space for another prominent figure, Cowell was noncommittal. "We are a robust but still developing team that has recently strengthened with talented individuals like Adrian Newey and Enrico Cardile. We have a new facility and the best resources, which we aim to maximize. Our goal is to continue expanding and progressing. Christian needs to decide what he wants for his future."

      Should Horner join Aston, his role would likely resemble that of Dr. Helmut Marko at Red Bull or Niki Lauda at Mercedes—an external advisor and shareholder outside the budget cap. Reports suggest that Newey has also been offered a 2.5 percent share.

      Owner Lawrence Stroll has already initiated a wave of high-level appointments, including Cowell, Newey, Cardile, Bob Bell, Eric Blandin, and former Red Bull associates Giles Wood and Giles Scott. "We are expanding and assembling a team that is advancing," Cowell remarked. "Our focus has been intentionally set on the 2026 season."