Christian Horner, the former Red Bull Racing team principal, has declared that he has "unfinished business" in Formula 1, fueling speculation about a potential return to the sport. Horner, who was dismissed from Red Bull in July 2025 after two decades with the team, made his first public address since his departure at the European Motor Show in Dublin on January 31, 2026.

During the event, the 52-year-old Briton addressed rumors surrounding his future and stated his desire to return to F1, but only under the right circumstances. "I feel like I have unfinished business in Formula 1," Horner said. "It didn't finish the way that I would have liked it to finish". He emphasized that he would only consider a comeback if he could contend for victories. "But I am not going to come back for just anything. I am only going to come back for something that can win," he stated.

Horner clarified that he is not interested in a purely symbolic or advisory role. "I don't want to go back in the paddock unless I have something to do," he explained. "I would want to be a partner, rather than just a hired hand". This suggests that Horner would seek a significant stakeholding or leadership position within a team, rather than simply being an employee.

Since his departure from Red Bull, Horner has been linked to several teams, including Alpine. Recent reports suggest that he is in negotiations to buy out Otro Capital's stake in Alpine. However, Horner's comments suggest that he would only join a team with the potential to win, which could rule out a move to the currently struggling Alpine outfit. Alpine finished at the bottom of the standings and now relies on Mercedes for engines.

Horner's tenure at Red Bull was remarkably successful. After joining the team in 2004, following Red Bull's acquisition of Jaguar F1 Team, he became the youngest team principal in Formula 1. Under his leadership, the team secured six Constructors' Championships and eight World Drivers' Championships, overseeing the dominant eras of Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. In 2023, Red Bull won all but one race, marking their dominance in the sport.

Horner's departure from Red Bull followed a period of turbulence, including workplace allegations and the departure of key figures such as Adrian Newey. Despite the circumstances of his exit, Horner reflected positively on his time with the team. "I had 21 incredible years in Formula 1," he said. "I had a great run, won a lot of races, championships and worked with some amazing drivers, engineers and partners".

While Horner's future in Formula 1 remains uncertain, his recent comments have made it clear that he intends to return to the sport in a meaningful capacity. He also stated that he will not be attending the Australian Grand Prix without a role in the paddock. Whether that is with Alpine or another team remains to be seen, but his ambition to win suggests that he will carefully consider his options before making a decision.