Christian Horner is nearing a return to Formula One, which could end up subseqeuntly earning a big payday for the likes of Anthony Joshua and Rory McIlroy

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Christian Horner is reportedly looking for a way back into Formula 1 (Image: PA)

Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is reportedly considering a comeback to Formula 1 with Alpine, potentially buying shares from Anthony Joshua and Rory McIlroy. The 52-year-old officially parted ways with Red Bull in September after agreeing on a severance package following his dismissal as team principal in July.

Horner led the F1 team since its inception in 2005, guiding them to eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ championship titles. His departure came after a contentious 18 months that began when a female employee accused him of sexual harassment – an accusation he denied and which became public in February 2024.

Horner was twice found to have done no wrongdoing, first by an internal investigation conducted by a lawyer, and then by another lawyer who dismissed the complainant’s appeal.

According to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, the Englishman could make a return to F1 in 2026. It is suggested that the earliest he can rejoin the sport is in the spring, once his gardening leave from Red Bull concludes.

Previously linked with Aston Martin, Horner saw his former colleague, Adrian Newey, promoted to team principal instead.

However, reports suggest that Horner isn’t just eyeing a return as team principal; he’s also interested in acquiring a stake in a racing team. Horner is said to be in discussions with Alpine, where his good mate Flavio Briatore holds the reins.

The Renault Group owns the majority of Alpine, but since 2023, an American consortium, Otro Capital, has held a 24 per cent stake.

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Horner’s possible return to F1 could potentially benefit Anthony Joshua and other sports stars(Image: Getty)

Famous sports stars and celebrities are among Otro’s investors, including pugilist Joshua, golfer McIlroy, footballer Trent Alexander-Arnold and actor Ryan Reynolds.

However, it’s rumoured that the consortium is considering selling their shares, which could potentially be snapped up by Horner and a group of investors.

Joshua, who is already worth a colossal £113million and set to earn £70m for Saturday’s fight with Jake Paul, could have his coffers boosted even more if his stake with Otro is bought by Horner and other investors.

If Horner does make the move to Alpine, he’ll be joining after one of the team’s most dismal seasons.

The Oxfordshire-based side ended up at the bottom of the constructors’ championship table, with drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto finishing 18th and 20th in the drivers’ standings.

When quizzed about the potential deal, Horner reportedly didn’t deny being in discussions with Alpine, but chose not to comment further.