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Christian Horner told Alpine is his ‘only viable option’ for an F1 return in 2026

Originally posted on HITC | By Tyler Rowlinson | Last updated Oct 14, 2025 1:03 PM ET

As Christian Horner prepares to re-enter Formula 1 in 2026, speculation is already swirling about his next move – but several potential destinations appear to be off the table.

After his time away from the sport following a period of gardening leave, Horner has been linked with a number of teams. He’s reportedly seeking an ownership role and would want a stake in any team he joins.

Rumours have quickly surfaced linking him to various teams, including Aston Martin and Haas. There have also been suggestions that he might even start his own team, given that F1 regulations now allow for up to 12 entries on the grid.

Ferrari’s name has come up recently as Fred Vasseur faces increasing pressure. But there are reports Ferrari could turn down the idea of bringing Horner on board for similar reasons they passed on Adrian Newey: they’re unlikely to offer him an ownership stake.

Aston Martin don’t seem interested either. Lawrence Stroll is said to be happy with his current setup heading into 2026, while Haas have shown no interest in outside investment. That leaves Horner with limited options, though one still appears viable.

Christian Horner’s ‘only viable option’ for 2026 F1 return is Alpine, he has been told

Reporter Nelson Valkenburg shared his thoughts on Horner’s future during an appearance on the Nailing The Apex podcast. He dismissed a potential switch to Williams, citing James Vowles’ strong influence and vision for the team.

Instead, Valkenburg identified Alpine as the most realistic landing spot for Horner. The Enstone outfit has been linked with him before, partly due to his close relationship with Flavio Briatore.

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“I can’t see with the way Vowles is running that team and the fact that he had the backing from Dalton to do what he did, just hard course correct and accept that two years of competitiveness may be down the drain,” he said.

“It didn’t happen. I think it worked out well for James Vowles, but I do not believe that Dalton and the owners of Williams would jeopardise the course they’re on because I think everybody in that organisation sees it, that if that engine next year, and we all keep coming back to next year’s regulation.

“It’s difficult to judge, but if it comes good with Mercedes, that team could be in the top five, top four regularly. And I think it’s been an iffy season in terms of build quality and some growing pains, but they’re there.”

“They’re in front in the midfield battle. And they’ve had a sleeper season maybe, but a good season. And I don’t think they’re going to jeopardise that by getting Christian Horner. I still believe Alpine is the only viable option for Horner if he indeed wants to come back.”

How Christian Horner joining Alpine could affect Flavio Briatore’s role

Horner is seen as the clear favourite to join Alpine in 2026, with reports suggesting there’s a strong chance he could take an ownership role. That has naturally raised questions about what it might mean for Briatore, who is currently serving in an advisory capacity.

Valkenburg believes the situation is fairly straightforward: “I think if Christian comes in, it comes in as a part or majority owner. And if that happens, then Flavio has done his job for Renault because I think he’s there to maximise what they’ve got.”

“And then step aside and let someone else capitalise on it. I think that someone else can be Horner. We’ll have to wait and see how that plays out,” Valkenburg added.

Which team will Christian Horner join in 2026?

“That’s why he got the Mercedes deal and make that team worth as much as he can. And I think getting it off the hands of the Renault group, maybe even a minority stake would mean a job well done for Flavio.

“And then I mean he’ll probably get a cut so he can buy another boat or something! Plus he’s a mate of Christian Horner so it works out.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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