Red Bull have sacked Christian Horner from his role as their team principal and CEO, but his exit may still not be enough to stop Max Verstappen from joining Mercedes.

The precise reason or even reasons why Red Bull have chosen to sack Horner after 20 years at their helm remains to be seen. Yet the 51-year-old’s departure from Milton Keynes comes at a time when Red Bull are fighting to keep hold of Verstappen amid their declining results.

Verstappen has won the F1 drivers’ championship in each of the last four seasons. However, the title seems set to be heading to McLaren in 2025, with the Dutchman now trailing Oscar Piastri by 69 points and Lando Norris by 61 after the first 12 of the 24 rounds due to be held.

So, the risk of the 27-year-old jumping ship was likely a leading reason for why Red Bull have sacked Horner, with it said that Verstappen has agreed a deal to join Mercedes. The 65-time Grand Prix winner has release clauses in his deal through 2028 tied to the drivers’ standings.

Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images

Red Bull could let Max Verstappen name their F1 team to stop him from joining Mercedes

Red Bull are desperate to try to stop Verstappen from joining Mercedes, with the Dutchman seemingly the only driver able to deliver results in their cars. Verstappen has secured 165 of Red Bull’s 172 points to date in the 2025 season after also scoring 74% of their total in 2024.

So, Formula1.it now reports that Red Bull could even let Verstappen become a title sponsor for one of their two teams. Horner’s presence at Red Bull was ‘highly inconvenient’ for such an idea originating in the paddock, yet his departure has made the prospect more plausible.

Making Verstappen a title sponsor for Red Bull Racing or letting him name their sister team, currently operating as Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, would allow Red Bull to capitalise on the Dutchman’s global popularity. It could even prove influential in Verstappen deciding to stay.

Allowing Verstappen to add his name to Red Bull or Racing Bulls’ identity would represent a ‘sensational twist’. But Horner’s exit has now made the idea which emerged in the paddock last week at the British Grand Prix more feasible, as his exit now removes the likely hurdle.

Red Bull sacking Christian Horner offers no guarantees that Max Verstappen will now stay

Photo by Rasid Necati Aslim/Anadolu via Getty Images
Red Bull may need to pull out all the stops to convince Verstappen that his future should still remain in Milton Keynes, even after the team sacked Horner. The Briton’s departure after 20 years in charge will not offer Red Bull any guarantees that Verstappen will fulfil his contract.

Verstappen will base his decision on much more than simply having a new boss, having seen Red Bull promote Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies as Horner’s replacement. Next term’s regulation changes will likely have a much bigger impact on the Dutchman’s decision.

The 2026 F1 engine and technical regulations will mark the biggest overhaul of the rulebook yet. And while Mercedes are expected to have the best 2026 engine with the new rules with 50/50 electrical/combustion power, Red Bull may have one of the worst 2026 rules engines.

The Sardinian Shockwave: Is Max Verstappen Plotting the Most Explosive Move in F1 History?

In a sport where secrets rarely stay hidden, Formula 1 fans are witnessing what could be the most seismic shift in the modern era. On the sun-drenched coast of Sardinia, far from the buzz of the paddock, a clandestine meeting may have just rewritten the future of F1. The central figure? None other than four-time world champion Max Verstappen.

A Meeting Too Big to Ignore

Public flight data confirmed Verstappen’s private jet landed in Sardinia just as yacht trackers pinged the presence of two floating giants—one registered to Verstappen’s “Unleash the Lion” and the other to Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. That wasn’t just a coincidence. Ralph Schumacher didn’t mince words: “I can imagine them having a cup of coffee there. It’s not a coincidence they’re meeting.”

But this was no casual espresso. It was a chess move. Perhaps the most calculated maneuver since Lewis Hamilton’s shock defection to Mercedes in 2013. Only this time, the stakes are higher. This isn’t just about a driver switch. It’s about a power vacuum—and who has the guts to fill it.

Red Bull in Turmoil

Underpinning all of this is the instability brewing inside Red Bull Racing. Christian Horner, the team principal who shaped the team’s DNA for nearly two decades, was unceremoniously removed amid controversy and political upheaval. The internal power struggle has reached a boiling point, and according to Dutch journalist Jack Plooij, Verstappen’s camp is livid. “Why now?” he asks. “This reeks of a political ploy to keep Max.”

But it’s backfiring.

Once viewed as an untouchable stronghold, Red Bull now looks fractured. Their 2023 dominance—21 wins out of 22 races—is a fading memory. In 2025, they sit fourth in the Constructors’ standings, with Verstappen a staggering 69 points adrift in the Drivers’ Championship. A fall from grace this steep rarely reverses quickly. Schumacher warns, “It usually takes two or three years to recover.”

The Mercedes Temptation

While Red Bull crumbles, Mercedes builds. CEO Ola Källenius has reportedly greenlit a blockbuster pursuit of Verstappen—rumored at over €50 million per year. For context, that’s nearly four times George Russell’s salary and astronomically higher than rookie Kimi Antonelli’s. But it’s not just about money. It’s about reestablishing dominance.

Mercedes now has the resources, the leadership, and a rejuvenated technical department with the 2026 regulation overhaul on the horizon. What they lack is a proven champion—someone with ice in their veins and fire in their wheelspin.

They lack Max Verstappen.

Red Bull’s Weak Foundation

Adding to Verstappen’s dilemma is Red Bull’s 2026 engine project. In partnership with Ford, the team plans to produce their own power units—a move viewed as bold, but unproven. Uncertainty in engine performance has derailed empires before. Just ask McLaren-Honda.

Pierre Waché, Red Bull’s technical director, has failed to deliver a truly drivable car for over a season now, Schumacher claims. And if the RB21 is falling short already, why should Verstappen trust a nascent engine department to bring glory?

Russell’s Future in Jeopardy

Caught in the crossfire is George Russell. Once seen as the natural heir to the Silver Arrows, his contract remains unsigned. Whispers in the paddock suggest his future may depend on Verstappen’s decision. If Max comes in, Russell could be shipped out, reshuffled to another team, or even held in reserve.

And while Antonelli waits in the wings, even Wolff knows betting the 2026 era on raw potential is dangerous. Verstappen is a known quantity. A proven winner. A born titan.

The Psychological Battle

Max Verstappen is no stranger to adversity. But Silverstone broke something. A poor setup, unpredictable rain, and a fifth-place finish—despite his heroic effort—left him visibly frustrated. “Even he couldn’t save them,” Schumacher noted. That realization could be the final crack in Red Bull’s armor. When even a four-time world champion can’t drag your car to the podium, something is deeply wrong.

And Christian Horner’s firing—intended as a move to stabilize Verstappen—might have been too little, too late. “You don’t put out a fire by blowing smoke,” says Plooij.

The Long Game

Toto Wolff has waited patiently. Since Verstappen’s rise, the Mercedes boss has watched from afar, respectful but determined. Now, the time for patience is over. With boardroom backing and a war chest at his disposal, Wolff is finally making his move.

Källenius, the no-nonsense Mercedes CEO, is said to have lifted any remaining reservations. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, he’s handed Wolff the green light. The cannon is loaded. Wolff has the trigger.

The Legacy Question

For Verstappen, this isn’t just a contract negotiation—it’s a legacy-defining moment. Does he stay loyal to Red Bull and attempt a rebuild amid chaos? Or does he leap to Mercedes and chase a second dynasty in enemy colors?

Consider the stakes: If Verstappen jumps ship and Mercedes returns to dominance, this becomes the greatest transfer in F1 history. Bigger than Hamilton to Mercedes. Bigger than Vettel to Ferrari. Because Verstappen is still in his prime, still ferociously fast, and still rewriting records.

Red Bull’s silence is telling. No public denial. No assurance. Not even a statement of confidence in Verstappen’s continued presence. Maybe they can’t promise anything—because maybe they know the writing is on the wall.

Conclusion: The Moment of Truth

Formula 1 is a sport of millimeters and momentum. The 2025 summer break may be the turning point not just for a driver, but for the entire grid’s balance of power.

Verstappen stands at a fork in the road. One direction leads to the familiar chaos of Red Bull, a team teetering on the brink. The other to Mercedes, where legacy, ambition, and infrastructure await.

And if this all started with a coffee off Sardinia’s coast, it might end with Verstappen in silver, cutting through Monaco’s tight corners on a historic path to immortality.

This isn’t just a rumor. It’s the tremor before the quake. The next few months could redefine Formula 1 as we know it.

Because if Max Verstappen moves, Formula 1 moves with him.

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Christian Horner’s Shocking F1 Power Move: Red Bull’s Fall, Ferrari’s Rise?

The Formula 1 world has been rocked by what could be the most explosive development in recent memory: Christian Horner, just days after being unceremoniously ousted from Red Bull Racing, is now in advanced talks to join Ferrari. The implications of this potential move are staggering, not just for Horner or the two teams involved, but for the entire power structure of the sport.

This isn’t just a change in management — it’s a seismic shift that could realign the competitive dynamics of F1 for years to come.

A Shocking Exit After Two Decades

For over 20 years, Christian Horner was the face and force behind Red Bull Racing’s meteoric rise. Under his leadership, the team claimed eight Drivers’ Championships and six Constructors’ titles, transforming from newcomers into one of the most dominant teams in modern F1 history.

But in an abrupt and opaque decision, Red Bull announced Horner’s removal as Team Principal without offering any real explanation. The paddock was stunned. The statement was vague, tensions reportedly high, and whispers of internal fractures louder than ever — particularly with Max Verstappen’s camp. Rumors of power struggles and behind-the-scenes conflicts had circulated for months. Some insiders claim that Horner’s sacking came at the behest of Verstappen’s inner circle, including his outspoken father, Jos Verstappen, who had publicly criticized Horner’s leadership.

Ferrari’s Bold Opportunity

In the wake of Horner’s dismissal, Ferrari moved with astonishing speed. Sources suggest that key figures within the Italian squad reached out to Horner almost immediately, signaling serious interest. The message from Maranello was clear: Ferrari sees Horner as the missing piece in their championship puzzle.

Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari’s current team principal, has brought a measure of stability, but the results have remained inconsistent. Despite having Charles Leclerc and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton behind the wheel, Ferrari continues to falter under pressure, often due to questionable strategy and poor execution.

Horner, by contrast, is renowned for his tactical mastery and ability to build cohesive, winning teams. From managing Sebastian Vettel’s early dominance to nurturing Red Bull’s renaissance with Verstappen, Horner has demonstrated time and again what it takes to not only win, but to sustain excellence.

A Personal Vendetta?

For Horner, joining Ferrari wouldn’t just be a new chapter — it would be personal. The abrupt end to his Red Bull tenure, especially after years of loyalty and success, is said to have deeply affected him. He guided the team through technical challenges, internal investigations, and even the departures of key personnel like Adrian Newey and Rob Marshall. Yet, he was cast aside without ceremony.

This rumored move to Ferrari could be Horner’s ultimate form of redemption — and revenge. By joining Red Bull’s fiercest historic rival, he would be making a loud statement: that his career is far from over, and that he still has something to prove. If he leads Ferrari to a long-awaited championship, it would be a dramatic response to Red Bull’s apparent betrayal.

Red Bull’s Crisis Deepens

Red Bull is facing one of its most unstable moments since entering Formula 1. With Horner gone and other senior figures like Newey and Marshall having already left, a leadership vacuum looms large. If the move was made to appease Verstappen, it may have backfired. Max has yet to fully commit to Red Bull beyond 2025, and whispers of a switch to Mercedes are growing louder.

If Verstappen departs, Red Bull could be staring down a painful rebuild. The team, once known for precision and innovation, could find itself slipping from championship contenders to midfield mediocrity. The 2026 regulation overhaul only compounds the uncertainty. With no clear leadership and key technical minds gone, Red Bull’s once-solid foundation is rapidly eroding.

The Ferrari-Horner Equation

Ferrari, for all its history and fanfare, hasn’t won a Constructors’ Championship since 2008 or a Drivers’ title since 2007. The Scuderia is desperate for a reset, and Horner may be the one person capable of delivering it. His credentials are unmatched: strategic acumen, championship experience, and a proven ability to develop driver talent.

Bringing in Horner would likely mean the end of Vasseur’s tenure and a complete reshaping of Ferrari’s culture. That, however, may be exactly what they need. Ferrari doesn’t just want to be fast — they want to win. And winning requires more than horsepower and skill. It needs leadership, vision, and the ability to turn raw speed into consistent results. Horner offers all three.

Verstappen’s Future in Flux

One of the biggest wildcards in this unfolding drama is Max Verstappen. The reigning world champion has become increasingly ambiguous about his long-term future with Red Bull. His public silence on Horner’s exit and vague responses to questions about 2026 have only intensified speculation.

If Horner lands at Ferrari, Verstappen may be tempted to jump ship — possibly to Mercedes, where Toto Wolff has long admired him. Alternatively, a reunited Horner-Verstappen duo at Ferrari could become F1’s next superpower. Though unlikely at this stage, nothing is off the table during a season that’s already shattered every expectation.

The Bigger Picture: F1’s New Power Struggle

This bombshell isn’t just about one man changing teams. It represents a possible realignment of power in Formula 1. For over a decade, Red Bull and Mercedes have dominated the grid. But as Red Bull teeters and Ferrari seeks to rise, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era — one shaped not only by driver talent and engine development, but by the decisions being made right now behind closed doors.

If Horner signs with Ferrari, it would likely spark a chain reaction. Vasseur would be out, Verstappen’s future would come under immediate scrutiny, and Red Bull could be forced into a rapid overhaul. All of this before the sport enters its next major rules reset in 2026.

Final Thoughts

Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull has left shockwaves across the sport — but his rumored resurgence at Ferrari could be even more impactful. If this move goes through, it won’t just be about a team principal swap. It will be a declaration of war, a shift in F1’s very balance of power.

For Red Bull, losing Horner may be the first domino in a collapse they didn’t see coming. For Ferrari, it could be the rebirth of a legend. And for Horner, it would be the sweetest revenge — turning rejection into redemption on the grandest stage in motorsport.

One thing is clear: the F1 paddock may never be the same again.

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After spending the past eight seasons at ESPN, the American broadcasting rights to Formula One are set to swap to Apple for the upcoming season off the backs of a highly successful movie release.

According to Puck’s Dylan Byers, Apple has tendered an offer of $150million per year to Liberty Media for the broadcasting rights to the top level of motorsport in the world.

At the same time, Business Insider is reporting that ESPN is not likely to match the bid for the racing series – with Apple’s pricetag nearly double the $85million per year that the ‘Worldwide Leader in Sports’ is currently paying.

With ESPN reportedly ‘unwilling to match’ the offer laid out by the California tech giant, it’s almost certain that Apple will broadcast the competition next year once the current contract lapses.

What isn’t clear in the reporting is if Apple will produce F1 races themselves – or, if like ESPN, it will simulcast the feed from the UK’s Sky Sports F1.

Adding the sport to Apple’s current stable of sports broadcasting rights is a natural progression after the popularity and success of the ‘F1’ movie starring Brad Pitt.

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ESPN is set to lose the rights to Formula One broadcasts after Apple’s $150million bid

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This comes off the heels of Apple’s highly popular F1 movie, which grossed over $300m

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ESPN initially bought the rights to broadcast the sport in 2018 at a price tag of $85m per year

Apple Studios was one of the five production companies which made the film, and Apple Original Films distributed the motion picture alongside Warner Bros.

At the time of publishing, according to BoxOfficeMojo, the film has grossed over $309million at the box office worldwide on a reported budget of between $200-300m.

Apple has increasingly shown their interest in broadcasting live sports and has paid significant money for streaming rights.

The California company is paying Major League Baseball $85million per year to broadcast games on Friday evenings nationally, retroactive to the 2022 season.

Apple also broadcasts Major League Soccer matches – having paid an undisclosed sum to put every game on its MLS Season Pass platform.

F1 growth in the United States has nearly doubled since ESPN first acquired the rights in 2018. Part of that growth can be attributed to the popularity of Netflix’s ‘Drive to Survive’ docuseries.

With the NBA just locking up a major rights deal for the upcoming season and the NHL going into Year 4 of its deal with Turner and ESPN, Apple’s next logical step would be to acquire the rights to NFL broadcasts.

It’s unclear when an opportunity to do that would present itself.

Christian Horner: The Red Bull King Who Was Dethroned — And Might Just Build His Own Empire

For two decades, Christian Horner wasn’t just the team principal of Red Bull Racing — he was Red Bull Racing. From the ashes of Jaguar’s collapse, he built a juggernaut. 124 race wins. Eight Drivers’ Championships. Six Constructors’ titles. A Formula 1 empire forged not just with engineering brilliance, but with political mastery, ruthless leadership, and sheer willpower.

And then — just like that — he was gone.

No press conference. No farewell. No final pit wall wave.

Just a cold statement: “Effective immediately.”

You don’t pay someone £50 million to vanish unless you’re burying something radioactive. And behind Horner’s shocking departure lies a tale of internal warfare, dynastic shifts, and a man now free to reshape the F1 landscape all over again.

The Silent Coup: How Red Bull Turned on Its Own Architect

What really happened behind the scenes? You won’t hear this on Sky Sports.

Horner’s job wasn’t untouchable because of titles — it was secure because of who backed him: Chalerm Yoovidhya, the Thai billionaire whose family controls 51% of Red Bull GmbH. Chalerm was Horner’s shield, his silent protector. Even when tensions flared with Helmut Marko or when the Verstappens pushed for change, Chalerm said no. Horner stayed.

But on May 20th, the balance shattered.

Chalerm quietly transferred a 2% personal shareholding into a Swiss trust, effectively handing the Austrians — the other side of Red Bull’s divided ownership — majority operational control. And they wasted no time. They ousted Horner, not at season’s end, but immediately.

No courtesy. No sendoff. Just exile.

Even Bernie Ecclestone, F1’s Machiavellian godfather and a longtime Horner ally, didn’t sugarcoat it: “He was a 50-year-old who thought he was 20. Just an idiot.”

A brutal fall. But one that might spark a second rise.

Why Horner’s Not Done: Alpine, Ferrari… or Empire 2.0?

Here’s the truth: Christian Horner is far from finished.

You don’t build a dynasty, rule it for 20 years, and then disappear into the Cotswolds to tend to rose gardens. You plan your comeback. You play chess. And now that Red Bull’s moved — it’s Horner’s turn.

Alpine: The Logical Rebirth

Right now, the Alpine F1 team is in chaos: underperforming, undirected, and unraveling from within. But beneath the mediocrity is potential. Mercedes power units are arriving in 2026. Flavio Briatore — the sport’s original powerbroker and a longtime Horner contact — is back in Alpine’s orbit.

If Christian walks into that garage tomorrow, he inherits a blank canvas. Based in the UK. No language barrier. No Maranello politics. And with ownership on the table? He could finally get the one thing Red Bull denied him: a personal stake.

Ferrari: Tempting… But Doomed to Disappoint

Every team boss dreams of Ferrari. Horner has already turned them down multiple times. Why? Because Ferrari is a minefield. A team where glory is offset by suffocating politics and media hysteria.

At Red Bull, Horner had complete control: technical, strategic, PR, even commercial. At Ferrari, he’d answer to John Elkann, field endless scrutiny from La Gazzetta, and navigate Italian factionalism that has outlasted Popes.

And here’s the rub: Ferrari offers prestige, but never power. Martin Brundle summed it up perfectly: “Christian will be desperate to have a stake in a team going forward… You don’t get that at Ferrari.”

Red Bull’s Gamble: Firing the Architect and Arming the Enemy

Here’s the irony: Red Bull may have fired Horner — but they also handed him a £50 million golden parachute and left him with every trade secret imaginable. Engine roadmaps. Technical innovations. Sponsorship blueprints. Personnel strategies.

He knows everything.

And once his gardening leave ends, he’s a walking, talking Red Bull operating manual.

If Alpine hands him equity and freedom, we could be witnessing not a comeback — but a revenge tour.

Ferrari’s Surrender: Why Maranello Might Miss Its Moment

After the British Grand Prix, Fred Vasseur made headlines by effectively admitting 2025 is a lost cause: “Even if you win all the races until the end, I’m not even sure you will be champion.”

That’s not realism. That’s resignation.

Ferrari — a team that once battled for every inch, every race, every championship — has seemingly folded. Charles Leclerc is floundering. Hamilton is already talking like a technical director. The car is flawed. The leadership is absent. The direction? Nonexistent.

This is the perfect moment to bring in Horner.

But Ferrari likely won’t do it. Not because they don’t want to win — but because to win with Horner, they’d have to cede control. And Ferrari doesn’t give up control.

The Real Stakes: Power, Legacy, and the Next Era of F1

Christian Horner isn’t chasing another contract. He’s chasing influence. Legacy. Ownership. The kind of legacy that lives in Brackley or Woking — not in a Ferrari boardroom full of power brokers.

He’s proven he can take a crumbling team and turn it into a dynasty. Red Bull was once a joke. Under Horner? It became an empire.

Now, Alpine might be the sequel.

And let’s be honest — Horner knows how to win. He knows how to weaponize politics. How to seduce sponsors. How to pick drivers. And how to crush opposition.

Ferrari will keep floundering. Red Bull will try to hold steady without their general. But Alpine?

They might be the battlefield Horner chooses.

Because while Ferrari offers history…

Alpine offers his story.

The End of Red Bull’s Golden Era — or the Start of Horner’s Second Dynasty?

With Horner gone, Red Bull is vulnerable. The Verstappen camp is watching closely. Helmut Marko’s influence is waning. And the Thai-Austrian power balance is fractured beyond repair.

Max Verstappen reportedly has a performance clause — one that lets him walk if Red Bull slips. If Alpine, under Horner, starts rising? Don’t be shocked if Max jumps ship.

Because loyalty in F1 is built on two things: speed and control. And Red Bull just lost both.

So here we are: Christian Horner — no longer the team principal.

But maybe, just maybe — the man who rewrites the future of Formula 1.

Watch this space.

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Hamilton or Horner? Ferrari’s Crossroads Could Shake F1 to Its Core

Ferrari stunned the Formula 1 world when it announced the signing of Lewis Hamilton — arguably the sport’s greatest driver — for the 2025 season. For the Scuderia, it was a power move decades in the making. For fans, it was the realization of a long-held dream: Hamilton in red. But now, just months after the announcement, whispers from the paddock suggest that dream could turn into a nightmare — and fast.

According to growing speculation, Hamilton’s historic move to Maranello could be in jeopardy before he even turns a lap in scarlet. And the cause? One man: Christian Horner.

The Rumor That’s Sending Shockwaves Through the Paddock

After a bombshell fallout at Red Bull Racing earlier this year, Horner’s future at the Milton Keynes-based team is hanging by a thread. Sources say internal power plays and off-track controversies have weakened his grip. Now, the F1 rumor mill — never known for subtlety — is churning out the unthinkable: Christian Horner to Ferrari.

The Italian giants are under pressure. Team Principal Fred Vasseur hasn’t delivered a win in 2024, and the tifosi’s patience is running thin. With Ferrari’s legacy at stake, names like Horner start to sound like solutions. He’s a proven winner: five Constructors’ Championships, eight Drivers’ titles, and a reputation as one of the most shrewd operators in the paddock.

But there’s a catch — and it’s a big one.

Hamilton’s Ultimatum?

Will Buxton, one of F1’s most plugged-in voices, recently suggested that if Horner lands at Ferrari, Hamilton could walk. And while it may sound dramatic, it’s far from implausible.

To understand why, you need to go back to 2021 — the most controversial season in modern F1 history. Hamilton and Verstappen clashed in a title fight that left emotional scars on all sides. At the center of it all? Christian Horner. His war of words with Toto Wolff. His relentless pressure on the FIA. His public and private maneuvering. Horner wasn’t just a player — he was the architect of Red Bull’s resurgence and Mercedes’ unraveling.

For Hamilton, the memory of that defeat is still raw. Many fans believe he was robbed in Abu Dhabi — and whether fair or not, Horner is inextricably linked to that outcome. Bringing the two under the same roof would be like trying to build a palace on a minefield.

A Clash of Titans

Ferrari’s leadership knows this. They also know the stakes.

On one side: Lewis Hamilton — not just a seven-time world champion, but a billion-dollar brand. A global icon whose presence transcends the sport. He brings attention, sponsors, legitimacy, and a winning mentality. His arrival was supposed to signal a new era at Ferrari — one built on calm, focus, and purpose.

On the other: Christian Horner — a serial winner with unmatched political savvy. A man who has turned Red Bull into a dynasty. He’s relentless in pursuit of power, and if he joins Ferrari, he won’t come to play second fiddle. He comes to conquer.

It’s an impossible paradox. Ferrari wants both, but insiders say it can’t have both. If Horner arrives, Hamilton could walk. And if they side with Lewis, Horner might take his talents elsewhere — perhaps to Alpine, where rumors of a long-term stake or ownership deal swirl.

Could Horner Buy Into Alpine?

There are credible reports suggesting Horner could be eyeing Alpine — formerly Renault — as a new frontier. Inspired by Toto Wolff’s model at Mercedes, where a minority ownership stake gives him both authority and profit-sharing, Horner may be looking for a similar structure.

But the numbers don’t quite align. Alpine’s valuation has been pegged at around $1.5 billion. Horner’s estimated net worth hovers near $50 million. A partnership might be possible, but a takeover? Unlikely — unless backed by investors or a consortium.

That leaves Ferrari as the most viable power seat — but only if the Scuderia is willing to pay the political price.

Ferrari’s Identity Crisis

This saga is more than just a battle between two alpha personalities. It’s a question of identity.

What kind of team does Ferrari want to be?

Do they double down on the Hamilton bet — the elegance, the brand power, the long game? Or do they chase the Horner formula — aggressive, ruthless, all-in on instant results?

For two decades, Ferrari has tried almost everything: Italian loyalty, French management, outsider visionaries. None have brought them back to the summit. Now, they stand at a fork in the road, with only one seat left at the table.

One for the man who builds empires.

One for the man who already is one.

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just a personnel decision. It’s a defining moment in Ferrari’s modern history. The team has the car. It has the driver. What it lacks is cohesion — and a clear vision.

In many ways, this feels like Ferrari’s version of a Game of Thrones arc: alliances forming, empires crumbling, legacies on the line.

The fans want glory. The sponsors want relevance. The media want headlines. And somewhere in the middle, Lewis Hamilton wants trust.

If Ferrari gambles on Horner, they better win. Because losing both would be catastrophic.

What Happens Next?

As we enter the summer break, the whispers are only getting louder. Horner’s Red Bull future is still unresolved. Ferrari is tight-lipped. Hamilton, for now, remains focused — but insiders suggest he’s watching everything closely.

For a team that’s lived through decades of politics, Ferrari is no stranger to internal strife. But this is different. This is existential.

And here’s the bottom line: if Ferrari gets this wrong, they don’t just risk a bad season — they risk losing their soul.

Your Move, Ferrari

So what will it be?

The tactician or the titan?

The kingmaker or the king?

Whichever choice they make, one thing’s for certain: Ferrari’s next move could shake the grid harder than anything since the 2021 finale.

And if you thought the silly season was over… buckle up.

Because this story? It’s only just getting started.

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The brother of Max Verstappen’s long-term partner has hinted that the Red Bull star is likely to join Mercedes ahead of next season and won’t be taking a sabbatical from F1

Max Verstappen has been heavily linked with Mercedes(Image: Bryn Lennon – Formula 1, Formula 1 via Getty Images)

The brother of Max Verstappen’s long-term girlfriend has dropped a major hint that the Red Bull driver could be set to switch to Mercedes before the next season and has also dismissed the idea of Verstappen taking a break from F1. The rumour mill has been in overdrive for some time with talk of Verstappen making a move to Toto Wolff’s team.

However, the unexpected dismissal of Red Bull boss Christian Horner this week has only added fuel to the fire that the four-time world champion might be on his way to join the Silver Arrows, potentially replacing the underperforming George Russell.

Mercedes had a day to forget at Silverstone last week, with Russell only managing to secure a P10 finish and Kimi Antonelli failing to complete the race due to a collision.

Red Bull didn’t fare much better, as Verstappen crossed the line in fifth place, maintaining his third position in the drivers’ standings but losing further ground to McLaren pair Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who are currently sitting in first and second places respectively.

Verstappen has been in a relationship with Kelly Piquet since 2020, and her brother Nelson Piquet Jr., has now used his insider knowledge to shed some light on the F1 star’s potential next career move.

Speaking on the Pelas Pistas Podcast, the former F1 driver was discussing the British Grand Prix and how close Verstappen, 27, is to jumping ship, reports the Express.

Nelson Piquet Jr. has claimed that Verstappen will most likely be joining Mercedes(Image: Getty)

“There are some weekends when things just don’t go your way, right?,” Nelson said. “There’s nothing you can do. One of the [Mercedes] drivers [Antonelli] is a rookie who also got hit from behind by [Racing Bulls driver, Isack] Hadjar. In any case, it just wasn’t their [Mercedes] weekend. Who knows, maybe next year Max will be there.”

He continued: “They’re talking, everyone knows that. What remains to be seen is whether they’ll come to an agreement contractually. But that is an option, everyone knows that. It’s being discussed.”

Both Antonelli and Russell are yet to sign fresh contracts with Mercedes, whilst team boss Wolff has been open about his ambition to secure Verstappen in what has become a highly public chase spanning several years.

Verstappen remains tied to Red Bull until 2028, though his contract contains escape clauses that could facilitate a swift departure to a rival outfit.

Nelson dismissed suggestions that Verstappen might step away from the sport temporarily next season, instead believing a crucial decision is imminent, whilst even offering his own forecast about who Verstappen might partner at Mercedes.

Max Verstappen hsa taken to social media following Christian Horner’s Red Bull exit(Image: AP)

Discussing the rumours about Verstappen’s future with Mercedes and the possibility of a break from F1, he added: “He will be there [F1]. I think by August he’ll have made his decision. They’ll either come to an agreement or not. That would be interesting. Ah, if he goes there, it will be Antonelli (who stays at Mercedes). It will definitely be Antonelli. Absolutely.”

Red Bull announced Horner’s dismissal from the team on Wednesday after a remarkable 20-year stint. A slump in form prompted the team to make changes as they fell to fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, paving the way for Laurent Mekies to take over.

Despite whispers of tension between Horner and Verstappen, the Dutch champion took to social media to pay tribute to the 51-year-old following his exit.

Posting on X, Verstappen wrote: “From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!”.

Carlos Sainz and the Quiet Rebellion: How Loyalty Might’ve Cost Him Everything

In the cutthroat world of Formula 1, where backroom politics and self-preservation reign supreme, loyalty often gets you nowhere. Especially when you’ve just been discarded like yesterday’s data sheet — not for underperforming, not for causing drama — but because a legend became available.

Carlos Sainz knows that sting better than most.

In early 2024, before the first car had even left the garage for winter testing, Ferrari dropped a bombshell that shook the paddock: Lewis Hamilton was joining the Scuderia in 2025. And Carlos Sainz? He was out.

There were no rumors. No prolonged negotiations. Just a sudden, clinical announcement that sent Sainz packing before the season had even begun. No farewell tour. No public gratitude. Just a press release and the cold, metallic echo of the Maranello gates closing behind him.

It was the kind of betrayal that might break lesser drivers — or push them to burn it all down from the inside.

And honestly? No one would’ve blamed him.

The Devil on His Shoulder

Think about it: Sainz had done everything right at Ferrari. He delivered wins. He challenged Charles Leclerc in equal machinery. He played the team game, bit his tongue in press conferences, and never made excuses. He was the model of professionalism in a sport that too often rewards those who shout the loudest.

Yet none of that saved him.

On the High Performance Podcast, Sainz admitted that the temptation to sabotage, to lash out, was very real. “There was a devil on my shoulder,” he said, reflecting on those turbulent early weeks of 2024. “It told me to tear it all down. But I chose dignity.”

And that’s exactly what he did. He didn’t leak garage drama to the press. He didn’t throw teammates under the bus. He didn’t even publicly criticize the decision.

Instead, he drove.

He drove like a man with nothing to lose — and everything to prove. He didn’t just match Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s golden child; he beat him. He brought home points, podiums, and even a crucial win. In doing so, he nearly dragged Ferrari into a constructors’ dogfight with McLaren — the kind of overperformance that few outside the team will ever truly understand.

Integrity as a Weapon

In choosing professionalism over vengeance, Sainz became more than a good driver — he became a powerful statement.

Every team in the paddock saw it.

They saw a driver who didn’t cave under pressure. Who delivered results with a smile, even when stabbed in the back. Who didn’t crumble when the sport turned its back on him. That kind of mental fortitude is rare. It’s a kind of silent strength that makes the difference between merely surviving F1… and mastering it.

And yet — no top team came calling.

Red Bull didn’t make a serious offer. Mercedes kept its options open. Aston Martin opted for continuity. For all his results and resilience, Carlos Sainz found himself in 2025 not in a title-contending car… but at Williams.

Yes, that Williams — the one still clawing its way back from a decade in the wilderness.

So why didn’t the big dogs bite?

A Man Out of Step with F1’s Politics

The uncomfortable truth is this: Carlos Sainz doesn’t play the political game.

He’s not a headline machine. He doesn’t cultivate a larger-than-life persona on social media. He doesn’t air dirty laundry or lobby for his own cause. In a sport increasingly defined by PR wars and Netflix optics, Sainz is old-school. A throwback. A “quiet assassin,” if you will.

And while that makes him beloved by purists, it makes him easy to overlook in a paddock driven by narratives.

But therein lies his greatest weapon: while others chase attention, Sainz quietly piles on the pressure. He is the embodiment of resilience — no gimmicks, no excuses, just results.

The Williams Chapter: A Temporary Exile?

Now at Williams, Sainz faces his steepest challenge yet: dragging a midfield car into relevance while fending off a grid full of rising stars. He’s been punted off, stuck in gear, and burned by strategy — and still he shows up with fire in his eyes.

He knows the world is watching. He knows that every overtake, every qualifying miracle, is another line on the résumé that Ferrari chose to ignore.

And make no mistake: the paddock may have moved on… but Sainz has not. He’s playing the long game now — and if history tells us anything, it’s that the long game favors the disciplined.

2026: The Devil Returns?

Here’s the twist no one sees coming: by choosing integrity, Carlos Sainz may have become even more dangerous.

He’s not bitter — he’s sharper. He’s not vindictive — he’s calculating. He didn’t let the betrayal define him; he let it refine him. And now, with regulation changes on the horizon in 2026 and several top seats potentially up for grabs, the next chapter of this story is writing itself.

If there’s justice in Formula 1 — and that’s a big if — someone will give Sainz the machinery he deserves. And when they do? Watch out. Because there’s nothing more terrifying than a driver who’s fast, mentally bulletproof, and quietly hell-bent on proving every doubter wrong.

Carlos Sainz may have let the angel win in 2024. But in 2026?

He just might become the devil that every top team regrets ignoring.

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Graeme Lowdon sets the record straight on conversations with Valtteri Bottas, Mick Schumacher, Daniel Ricciardo, and Sergio Perez

Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1 team principal

Photo by: Cadillac Communications

Cadillac Formula 1 team principal Graeme Lowdon has confirmed that the American outfit is in talks with Mick Schumacher for a potential contract for 2026. He also set the record straight about Daniel Ricciardo potentially joining the team, claiming that the Australian driver doesn’t want to return to the championship.

The team, which is led by CEO Dan Towriss and benefits from 1978 F1 champion Mario Andretti being on the board of directors, is set to join the series as the 11th team next year. The debut date is creeping up on the team which is yet to announce a driver lineup.

“Yeah, we’re talking to Mick,” Lowdon said with a smile during an appearance on the High Performance podcast.

When asked about Ricciardo, Lowdon explained, “Yeah, actually, I think he’s publicly said that he’s not interested in Formula 1.”

“It’s not my job,” he said when asked if he would try and change the eight-time grand prix winner’s mind. “If I need to convince someone, then it’s the wrong person. You never need to convince a Formula 1 driver to jump in the car.”

He also added that the team is in talks with Mercedes reserve driver and former Sauber driver Valtteri Bottas.

“Everyone wants to prove something else again,” Lowdon added about both Bottas and Schumacher. “I never look at that as the biggest motivator. Our team is not there as a vehicle for someone to prove a point. Our team is there to provide a position on the pitch, if you like. For someone to prove what they can do for sure, but it’s not the vehicle to show the world, prove a point or whatever.

Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1 team principal

Photo by: Cadillac Communications

“The driver is there to do the best that they possibly can for their team, and they should be motivated for the team around them as well. So, I’m less keen on people who kind of want to prove a personal point.”

When quizzed further on other drivers the team are in conversation with, Lowdon confirmed they are also talking with former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez.

“Every single person, every name that you’re going to read out, we’re talking to everyone because everyone wants the drive.”

Christian Horner’s Shock Departure from Red Bull and His Potential Next Move to Alpine

The Formula 1 world was left stunned when Christian Horner, one of the sport’s most successful and longest-standing team principals, abruptly parted ways with Red Bull Racing. After over two decades at the helm of one of F1’s most dominant teams, Horner’s exit raised eyebrows—and immediate questions about what’s next. Speculation has swirled, with one name repeatedly surfacing: Alpine. Could Horner be plotting a return to the paddock not just as a team principal—but perhaps even as a part-owner? Let’s break down the real story behind Horner’s departure, what makes Alpine a serious option, and how this seismic shift could shake up the grid.

The End of an Era at Red Bull

Christian Horner’s Red Bull tenure was nothing short of legendary. Under his leadership, the team captured six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships with talents like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. But that incredible legacy began to unravel amid internal controversies that reached a boiling point.

Despite being cleared of allegations of inappropriate conduct, the damage was done. The scandal left a shadow over Horner’s once-untouchable reign and precipitated the departures of key Red Bull personnel including Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, and others. For the first time in 20 years, Horner found himself without a team—and in need of a new purpose.

The Alpine Opportunity: A Surprising Contender

At first glance, Alpine might not seem like the most logical destination for Horner. The team has been plagued with inconsistent performances, internal instability, and a lack of strategic clarity. But therein lies the opportunity.

Alpine is in desperate need of a strong, visionary leader—someone with the pedigree to rebuild from the ground up. With Flavio Briatore returning as executive advisor, the team is clearly positioning itself for a major shake-up. And Briatore is known for surrounding himself with the best talent available—be it engineers, drivers, or team principals.

Horner fits that bill perfectly.

Alpine’s Challenges—and Why Horner Could Be the Fix

Horner would be walking into a challenging environment. The team’s inconsistency, particularly with driver performance, mirrors some of the issues he dealt with at Red Bull. Alpine has already rotated through two drivers this season, and the second seat remains a weak point. Managing two high-performing drivers—and ensuring both cars score consistently—is a task Horner knows well.

However, Alpine is currently a dysfunctional organization in need of not just strategic leadership but cultural overhaul. Horner’s proven ability to manage high-pressure situations and high-profile personalities could be just what the team needs to stabilize and rebuild.

The catch? He would only be able to officially take up a new role after serving a gardening leave through the end of 2025, delaying any direct influence until January 2026. That could complicate Alpine’s development for the new regulations that take effect that year.

The Pierre Gasly Problem

One significant obstacle to Horner’s potential arrival is the presence of Pierre Gasly. The Frenchman’s history with Horner isn’t rosy—he was dropped by Red Bull after only 13 races, despite showing promise. Gasly’s confidence and career momentum were both shaken, and while he’s now the lead driver at Alpine, the idea of being reunited with Horner may not be appealing.

Would Briatore consult Gasly before making such a move? Possibly. If Gasly objects, it could create tension—or even force Alpine into making a tough choice between their team leader and a potential savior in Horner.

From Team Principal to Team Owner?

More intriguing than a traditional leadership role is the idea that Horner may be eyeing something bigger: ownership. As F1 becomes increasingly commercialized and privatized, owning a stake in a team gives someone like Horner long-term influence and control—far beyond the day-to-day role of a team principal.

This could explain his interest in Alpine. Renault, Alpine’s parent company, may be more open to outside investment or strategic partnerships than Red Bull ever was. According to respected pundits like Martin Brundle, Horner is believed to be “desperate to have a stake in a team” moving forward.

Such a move would align with the current F1 trend: Liberty Media has encouraged team equity shifts, and other high-level personnel, like Toto Wolff and Zak Brown, already hold shares in their respective teams. Ownership gives Horner the power he may have lacked during the final days at Red Bull.

Other Options on the Table: Ferrari and Aston Martin

If not Alpine, where else could Horner go?

Ferrari once looked like a potential destination. Rumors swirled when Fred Vasseur’s position appeared vulnerable, and Horner’s resume would certainly qualify him for Maranello’s hot seat. But those whispers have cooled considerably. Reports suggest Ferrari shareholders are now looking to extend Vasseur’s contract, and the team isn’t keen on adding another controversial figure into an already delicate mix.

Aston Martin, meanwhile, presents an intriguing—but complicated—alternative. The Silverstone-based team has been aggressively building its future around a dream team of Adrian Newey, Eric Blandin, and Honda power units. Adding Horner could complete the puzzle—but also risk disrupting internal harmony. Newey, a technical partner, holds significant sway and might oppose working again with Horner if past tensions remain unresolved.

The Rebuilding of Red Bull: A Cautionary Tale

The fallout from Horner’s departure has been swift. Red Bull is already showing signs of internal disarray, and the team that once seemed invincible is entering a period of uncertainty. Jos Verstappen’s warning last year—that the team would crumble if Horner remained—has proven prescient, but not for the reasons he expected. Horner is gone, and Red Bull may need to rebuild.

Ironically, that gives added weight to Horner’s value elsewhere. Any team that secures him would be getting not just a race strategist or personnel manager—but a constructor of dynasties.

Conclusion: Alpine or Bust?

Christian Horner’s post-Red Bull future remains uncertain, but Alpine offers the most logical path back to the grid—whether as team principal, part-owner, or both. He’d be inheriting a mess, but also a unique opportunity: to craft a new legacy at a team desperate for a return to relevance.

Still, there are hurdles—Gasly’s presence, corporate caution, and the scars of controversy. But Horner is a proven winner, and winners often find a way back.

If Alpine passes, don’t expect Horner to stay away long. Whether it’s Ferrari, Aston Martin, or even an ambitious new project, F1 hasn’t seen the last of him.

The real question is: who will be brave enough to bet on the comeback?

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