Christian Horner Ferrari Move Verdict Confirmed as Toto Wolff Re...read more

Christian Horner to Ferrari Ruled Out as Toto Wolff Admits Regret Over Red Bull Exit

Rumors of Christian Horner making a high-profile switch to Scuderia Ferrari have officially been quashed, with sources close to the Maranello outfit confirming that the former Red Bull team boss is not in line for a role within the Italian Formula 1 team. The development comes weeks after Horner’s dramatic and controversial departure from Red Bull Racing — a team he led for nearly 20 years.

The speculation around Horner’s future had intensified after Ferrari’s recent internal struggles came under the spotlight, particularly with star driver Lewis Hamilton reportedly pushing for significant changes ahead of the sweeping 2026 F1 regulation overhaul. Many believed Ferrari could turn to an experienced and high-profile leader like Horner to strengthen their management. However, this possibility has now been firmly ruled out.

In a surprising turn, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has broken his silence on Horner’s exit, expressing an unexpected level of respect — and even regret — for how things ended between Red Bull and its long-time team principal.

“We’ve had our clashes — both on and off the track — and we’ve never hidden our competitive rivalry,” Wolff said during a press conference at the Austrian Grand Prix. “But looking at the bigger picture, I regret how things came to an end for Christian. Whether people liked his approach or not, there’s no denying that he was a central figure in shaping Red Bull into the powerhouse it became. His influence on the sport is something everyone must respect.”

Wolff’s comments come as a rare show of solidarity in a sport known for intense competition and rivalries that often turn personal. His reflections have triggered widespread discussion in the paddock, with many suggesting it signals a new tone of mutual respect among F1’s senior figures as the sport enters a new era.

Meanwhile, Ferrari’s current team principal Fred Vasseur has made it clear that the team remains committed to its current leadership structure. Speaking to Italian media over the weekend, Vasseur dismissed any talks of Horner joining the team:

“There is no ongoing negotiation with Christian Horner. Our focus is on building continuity, not disrupting it,” Vasseur stated firmly. “We have a plan in place for 2026, and we are moving forward with our current team.”

Christian Horner, who had become synonymous with Red Bull Racing after overseeing six drivers’ championships and multiple constructors’ titles, has remained largely out of the spotlight since his emotional goodbye to Red Bull staff at their Milton Keynes headquarters. It remains unclear what his next move will be, but insiders suggest that while a return to the Formula 1 paddock in a team leadership role seems unlikely in the short term, a strategic or advisory position — either within F1 management or in a motorsport governance body — may be on the horizon.

For now, the speculation linking him to Ferrari can be laid to rest. But with Horner’s vast experience and high profile, his next steps will undoubtedly continue to draw attention across the motorsport world.

As the 2025 season heads into its second half, one thing is clear: even in absence, Christian Horner remains one of the sport’s most talked-about figures.