Horner goes to FIA, Ralf believes Alpine agreement is 'finalized'

Horner goes to FIA, Ralf believes Alpine agreement is 'finalized'

      "Someone like Christian would desire a genuine role."

      Christian Horner has sparked further speculation regarding his Formula 1 future after being seen at the FIA’s Paris headquarters for discussions with president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. This meeting comes shortly after Flavio Briatore revealed that Horner and his supporters are among those looking into acquiring the 24 percent stake in Otro Capital related to Alpine.

      While some rumors hint that the former Red Bull boss might contemplate other paths back into Formula 1—like an improbable scenario involving Racing Bulls, or even talks concerning a potential future 12th team slot—the Alpine situation continues to gain traction.

      Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes the decision has already been made. "Based on what I’ve been told, the agreement between Horner and Alpine is essentially finalized," Schumacher stated on Sky Deutschland’s Backstage Boxengasse podcast. "It’s just a matter of time before we see Horner returning to the paddock."

      Nonetheless, Schumacher forecasted that any return would not be immediate. "That will likely occur around mid-season or even towards the end of 2026," he mentioned. He pointed out the current complexities at Alpine, noting their new technical partnership with Mercedes.

      "That’s also due to Mercedes' current involvement with the team, and given that Toto Wolff and Christian Horner are, understandably, not exactly on friendly terms," Schumacher added. "At Alpine, as I’ve heard, they want to restore calm first. Only then will they consider any structural changes."

      Schumacher also indicated that Briatore's influence might add complications. "Someone like Christian Horner would want a real position—to be a co-owner and be present on-site," he commented. "This could imply changes, or even the end of Briatore’s sole control. And that is precisely what Briatore wants to avoid."

Horner goes to FIA, Ralf believes Alpine agreement is 'finalized'

Other articles

Shareholders contributed EUR 20 million as the Dutch general partner departs. Shareholders contributed EUR 20 million as the Dutch general partner departs. Formula 1 | The choice to conclude the Dutch Grand Prix following the 2026 season is undergoing fresh examination after it was revealed that the investors supporting the Zandvoort initiative (…) Red Bull cautions that regulations might secure an engine advantage. Red Bull cautions that regulations might secure an engine advantage. Formula 1 | Ben Hodgkinson has cautioned that the 2026 power unit regulations may solidify an early competitive edge, amidst increasing concern in the paddock (…) Horner - I still have goals to achieve in Formula 1. Horner - I still have goals to achieve in Formula 1. Formula 1 | Christian Horner has publicly addressed his removal from Red Bull for the first time, reiterating that he is still strongly interested in returning to Formula 1. Verstappen feeling 'a little unwell' as Hamilton leads the timings. Verstappen feeling 'a little unwell' as Hamilton leads the timings. Formula 1 | Max Verstappen disclosed that he was unwell during the closed-door shakedown week in Barcelona, providing significant context for his limited (…) Aston unveils revolutionary car designed by Newey, while Mercedes delivers a 'surprise'. Aston unveils revolutionary car designed by Newey, while Mercedes delivers a 'surprise'. Formula 1 | Aston Martin made its entry into Formula 1's Barcelona shakedown late Thursday, presenting a remarkably innovative 2026 car that stands in stark contrast to (…) Schumacher is 'in his own world', explains psychologist regarding the secrecy. Schumacher is 'in his own world', explains psychologist regarding the secrecy. Formula 1 | Ex-Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has offered his thoughts on Michael Schumacher's condition, in light of recent reports that the (…)

Horner goes to FIA, Ralf believes Alpine agreement is 'finalized'

Formula 1 | Christian Horner has intensified speculation regarding his future in Formula 1 after being seen at the FIA's headquarters in Paris for discussions (…)