FIA President Backs Christian Horner's F1 Return

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has publicly expressed his support for Christian Horner's return to Formula 1, stating he "misses him in this sport" and believes the former Red Bull team principal will be back "sooner rather than later." Ben Sulayem's endorsement comes nearly ten months after Horner's controversial exit from the team he led for two decades.

Why it matters:

Ben Sulayem's comments represent the most significant and high-profile backing Horner has received since his dismissal. As the head of the sport's governing body, his opinion carries considerable weight and could influence how team principals and potential employers view Horner's legacy and future. It signals that, within certain powerful circles, Horner's past achievements may outweigh the controversy that ended his Red Bull tenure.

The details:

• Ben Sulayem revealed he met with Horner in Paris in January and maintains regular contact, describing him as having a "clean heart" and being "good for the sport."
• The FIA President dismissed the idea of erasing Horner's legacy, pointing to his record of eight drivers' titles and six constructors' championships with Red Bull.
• He acknowledged the challenges of a return, noting it "has to be both ways" and that Horner must show interest in opportunities himself.
• While Horner has been linked to a role at Alpine, no deal has materialized, leaving his future in the sport uncertain despite his clear desire to return.

What's next:

Ben Sulayem's vocal support adds a new dimension to Horner's potential comeback narrative. While it doesn't guarantee a seat, it legitimizes the conversation and may open doors that were previously closed. The key will be whether a team principal role becomes available at a competitive outfit that is willing to look past the 2024 allegations and invest in Horner's proven, if controversial, leadership. His path back likely depends on the combination of a team's need for his experience and their tolerance for the significant media scrutiny his appointment would inevitably attract.