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Ralf Schumacher says Alpine need to change Flavio Briatore role to accommodate Christian Horner

Originally posted on HITC | By David Comerford | Last updated Aug 13, 2025 8:41 AM ET

Christian Horner’s next move in Formula 1 may not be as straightforward as joining another top team, following his departure from Red Bull. Instead, he could find himself facing a longer path back to the front of the grid.

His well-known rivalries with leaders at Mercedes and McLaren make those options unlikely. There’s no sign that Toto Wolff is under pressure at Mercedes, and Andrea Stella only signed a contract extension with McLaren last year.

Ferrari had appeared to be a more realistic landing spot for Horner, but talks didn’t advance beyond initial stages and Fred Vasseur has since extended his stay. A return to Red Bull doesn’t seem possible while the current ownership remains in place.

There are rumours linking Horner to Toyota, who have shown interest in purchasing Haas. He’s also been mentioned as a potential fit for Cadillac, though they recently appointed Graeme Lowdon to lead their new team.

Alpine linked again as Flavio Briatore moves closer to an exit

So far, Alpine seems the most plausible option. Steve Nielsen has recently stepped into the managing director role, reporting to Flavio Briatore.

Briatore holds the title of ‘executive advisor,’ but in practice, he’s still the top decision-maker at the team. There’s been talk that Horner could buy a stake in Alpine to gain significant influence.

Ralf Schumacher, speaking to Bild, said Alpine needs more technical expertise at the top. Briatore has a strong track record with 43 race wins and four world championships from his time with Benetton and Renault. But Schumacher thinks it’s time for someone like Horner to step in.

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He suggested Briatore could remain involved as a networker while handing over control to Horner.

“I think the time for figures like Flavio is over,” Schumacher said. “You need technically skilled people at the top, someone like Horner. Flavio could then help as an organiser and networker, as a face to the outside world.”

Christian Horner’s path to Alpine may require an apology

Nico Rosberg has said that it would be a “great story” if Horner were to join Alpine, a team that has managed just one win and six podiums since rebranding in 2021. Even if Briatore was open to stepping aside, there would still be hurdles to clear.

Horner’s time at Red Bull included some harsh criticism of Renault when they were the team’s engine supplier, which strained his relationship with then-boss Cyril Abiteboul. Although Renault have since exited the engine business and will switch to Mercedes power units next year, their influence remains as majority shareholders.

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That history could mean Horner needs to address past comments before any deal can move forward. While he has been relieved of his duties as team principal, he still remains under contract with Red Bull until 2030.

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

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