Christian Horner's first plans for 2026 confirmed as he eyes up Formula 1 return
Christian Horner will be a key speaker at the European Motor Show in Dublin at the end of January, while the former Red Bull team principal's bid for a return to the world of Formula 1 is ongoing
Christian Horner's initial plans for 2026 have been revealed, as the former Red Bull chief continues his quest to find the perfect role that would see him make a comeback to the Formula 1 paddock. In the meantime, he's set to make a public appearance in Ireland before the new season kicks off.
Horner has agreed to feature at the European Motor Show, scheduled to take place in Dublin at the end of January. The 51-year-old has been announced as the headline speaker on the opening day of the two-day spectacle, on Saturday, January 31.
The former motorsport boss will draw on his two decades in the industry and 'share insights from his record-breaking career and reflect on what is next for motorsport and mobility in a rapidly evolving landscape'.
It's also expected to mark one of his first significant public outings since his exit from Red Bull, following his removal from day-to-day duties in July.
As quoted by the Express, Horner said: "Ireland has a rich motorsport heritage and I am honoured to join the inaugural European Motor Show. I look forward to engaging discussions on the future of performance, innovation and the people driving change in our sport."
Horner remained on Red Bull Racing's payroll despite being stripped of his team leadership role, as he was tied to a contract running through to 2030.
It was only last month that both parties reached an agreement, which saw the Brit pocket a massive payout of approximately £80million.
The arrangement also granted him permission to return to the sport as early as next year, providing he can agree a deal with another team. Horner has wasted little time in exploring his possibilities.
Ayao Komatsu disclosed at the Singapore Grand Prix that Horner had made contact for 'exploratory talks'. Speaking to Sky Sports, the Haas team boss said: "Yeah, it is true that he approached us.
"Then one of our guys had an exploratory talk. And that's it. Nothing has gone any further. It is finished."
When asked to expand on Horner's approach, Komatsu added: "I've got nothing more to say. Like I said, you write whatever you want. I'm not fuelling that story."
Horner also reached out to Aston Martin proprietor Lawrence Stroll. However, Andy Cowell was swift to dismiss any immediate plans for the 51-year-old to join their operation.
Speaking at the Marina Bay Circuit, the team principal said: "I had a chat with Lawrence to find out what he knows. It looks as though Christian is ringing up pretty much every team owner at the moment, so you can pass the question along.
"And I can clearly say, there are no plans for involvement, either in an operational or investment role in the future."
In the meantime, James Vowles has claimed he would 'welcome a conversation' with Horner. But, the Williams team principal emphasised that he is not seeking to make any changes to avoid the former Red Bull chief.
He said: "There's no point in closing the door, but we're very happy with the structure we have, and it's working. So I don't see any reason to make any changes to that."
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