Fernando Alonso has backed Aston Martin’s call not to sign ex-Red Bull Formula 1 boss Christian Horner, citing the team “doesn’t need more people in management”.
Horner hasn’t been seen in the paddock since the British Grand Prix, his last race before the bombshell that Red Bull had opted to end his two-decade reign in charge.
The Briton is believed to be courting a return, though, with speculation circulating that he is in discussions with Alpine about taking over a potential stake in the team.
That succeeded the news that Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll had told team members that Horner will not be arriving at the Silverstone-based squad in any role.
Instead, design guru Adrian Newey has been appointed as Aston Martin’s new team boss, with Andy Cowell being relocated to a revised role as Chief Strategy Officer.
When asked whether there could be space for Horner in another capacity, Alonso replied to Sky F1: “I don’t know, I don’t think that’s a question for me at the moment.
“But I think with Adrian taking the role now, Andy taking different responsibilities as well and he’s very capable of doing good things, Lawrence [is] a great leader, determined, [giving] maximum commitment always, things like that, I don’t think that we need any more people in the management. But obviously it’s not my decision.”
Aston Martin even more attractive with Newey promotion
Alonso supported Aston Martin’s decision to promote Newey, believing that his expanded role has made the team an even more attractive proposition to employees.
“I think having Adrian in the team attracts talent,” he said. “That’s for sure. Everyone would like to work with Adrian Newey and learn from him and all this kind of stuff.
“So him being a team principal, I’m sure we will have even more people dreaming of joining the team, so that’s good news for us.”
However, the Spaniard, who is still chasing an elusive third F1 title, hopes that Newey’s increased responsibilities won’t come at a cost to the Briton’s designing duties.
“I think he has all the skills, to be honest, to make a fast car,” he said.
“Then the role of team principal is a little bit different nowadays and you have to deal with other things, other stuff: media commitments or sponsors or something like that.
“I hope Adrian doesn’t need to do all of those and concentrate more in the important stuff.
“But he knows how to operate a team and how everyone should focus in in one direction so he’s a great leader and I’m happy with this announcement.”
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