Red Bull boss Christian Horner has insisted he is “100 per cent committed” to the team amid reports that Ferrari approached him about a possible move in Formula 1.
Ferrari has endured an underwhelming start to the campaign as two podiums from the opening eight races see it languish a considerable 177 points behind McLaren.
That gap, coupled with McLaren’s current pace advantage, has all but ensured that Ferrari’s prolonged title drought since 2008 is poised to go into another rules cycle.
Ferrari’s regression with a troubled SF-25 has increased the pressure on incumbent Fred Vasseur, who’s served at the helm since replacing Mattia Binotto in late 2022.
According to German publication BILD, the Italian marque’s senior bosses have been evaluating potential successors and sounded out Horner as the ideal alternative.
Horner is the longest-serving team principal on the whole F1 grid, having overseen eight Drivers’ Championship wins and six Constructors’ title successes since 2005.
But although the report stated that he had engaged in tentative conversations with Ferrari, Horner pledged his allegiance to leading Red Bull into F1’s next era in 2026.
“I mean, of course, it’s always flattering to be associated with other teams,” Horner told media including Motorsport Week at the Spanish Grand Prix.
“But my commitment 100 per cent is with Red Bull and always has been and certainly will be for the long term.
“There’s a bunch of speculation always in this business, people coming here, going there, whatever, and I think people in the team know exactly what the situation is.
“I mean, my Italian is worse than Flavio’s [Briatore, Alpine Executive Advisor] English!”
Horner has never considered Red Bull exit
There has been perpetual speculation surrounding Horner’s place at Red Bull since an internal probe was launched into allegations made against his conduct in 2024.
Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, even proclaimed that Horner’s presence could “tear apart” Red Bull as a public spat that succeeded the Briton being exonerated ensued.
Despite the turmoil that accompanied Verstappen’s eventual run to a fourth successive Drivers’ title, Horner vowed that he never considered tendering his resignation.
“It certainly was a very challenging year,” he admitted last year. “There was a lot to deal with but we always remained focused on on-track.
“Obviously, we’ve had a few changes in the team, as well, but we’re evolving for the future, and I think we’re in good shape for that.
“My passion has always been the competition. That’s what I get out of bed for. Once a racer, always a racer. When the lights go out, that’s what it’s all about.
“There’s a very exciting next chapter coming up with Red Bull Powertrains – it’s the biggest challenge we’ve taken on in the 20 years that we’ve been in the sport.
“I think the next chapter is potentially one of the most exciting chapters. You’re always learning in this business.”
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