Christian Horner told which team is his ‘only viable option’ to return to Formula 1 next year

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Several teams have been linked with Christian Horner as he plots to return to Formula 1 in 2026, but many opportunities are already being ruled out.

The former Red Bull boss is looking to return to the paddock next year after a period of gardening leave. It is understood that Horner would want a stake in an F1 team and take on an ownership role.

It has not taken long for rumours to circulate about where the 51-year-old could go. It has even been reported that Horner could set up his own team, with the sport allowing for 12 teams to be on the grid.

Ferrari have been heavily linked with the former Red Bull boss in recent weeks as Fred Vasseur faces pressure. However, Ferrari could block Horner’s signing as they would be unlikely to give him a stake in the team, similar to what happened with Adrian Newey.

Aston Martin have no plans to sign Horner, with Lawrence Stroll already having several key figures in place for 2026. Likewise, Haas are not interested in Horner’s investment, leaving him with one ‘viable option’.

Christian Horner told Alpine is his ‘only viable option’ for an F1 return in 2026

Journalist Nelson Valkenburg discussed Horner’s future on Nailing The Apex. He ruled out a potential move to Williams due to the work James Vowles has put in behind the scenes.

For Valkenburg, Alpine is the ‘only viable option’ for Horner to return to F1. The Enstone team have been linked with the 51-year-old, given Horner’s close relationship with Flavio Briatore.

“I can’t see with the way Vowles is running that team and the fact that he had the backing from Dalton to do what he did, just hard course correct and accept that two years of competitiveness may be down the drain,” he said.

“It didn’t happen. I think it worked out well for James Vowles, but I do not believe that Dalton and the owners of Williams would jeopardise the course they’re on because I think everybody in that organisation sees it, that if that engine next year, and we all keep coming back to next year’s regulation.

“It’s difficult to judge, but if it comes good with Mercedes, that team could be in the top five, top four regularly. And I think it’s been an iffy season in terms of build quality and some growing pains, but they’re there.

“They’re in front in the midfield battle. And they’ve had a sleeper season maybe, but a good season. And I don’t think they’re going to jeopardise that by getting Christian Horner. I still believe Alpine is the only viable option for Horner if he indeed wants to come back.”

READ MORE: All to know on sacked Red Bull team principal Christian Horner with net worth

What would Christian Horner joining Alpine mean for Flavio Briatore?

Horner has a 90% chance of joining Alpine in 2026. If he were to take an ownership role, many have wondered what would happen to Briatore, given that he is technically there in an advisory role.

Valkenburg has his answer: “I think if Christian comes in, it comes in as a part or majority owner. And if that happens, then Flavio has done his job for Renault because I think he’s there to maximise what they’ve got.

“That’s why he got the Mercedes deal and make that team worth as much as he can. And I think getting it off the hands of the Renault group, maybe even a minority stake would mean a job well done for Flavio.

“And then I mean he’ll probably get a cut so he can buy another boat or something! Plus he’s a mate of Christian Horner so it works out.”