Christian Horner Takes Advisory Role with Oakley Capital Amid F1 Return Speculation

Christian Horner, the former Red Bull team principal who built a championship dynasty, has taken on a new role as an advisor to private equity firm Oakley Capital, focusing on premium sports investments. The move comes as speculation continues over his potential return to the F1 grid with either Alpine or a proposed 12th team backed by Chinese manufacturer BYD.

Why it matters:

Horner’s track record at Red Bull—124 race wins, eight drivers’ titles, and six constructors’ championships—makes him one of the most sought-after figures in motorsport. His advisory role signals he remains deeply engaged in the sports business landscape, even as the F1 paddock awaits a decision on his next competitive venture.

The details:

• Horner officially parted ways with Red Bull at the end of the 2025 season after two decades, during which he oversaw the creation of Red Bull Powertrains and Advanced Technologies, and generated over $3 billion in commercial revenue.
• At Oakley Capital, he will advise on investments in “founder-led, high-growth” sports businesses, leveraging his commercial instincts and leadership experience.
• Oakley founder Peter Dubens noted Horner’s “track record, expertise and commercial instinct” as invaluable for scaling the firm’s sports portfolio, which targets under-commercialised scarce assets.
• Horner himself said he has “respected and known Peter and the Oakley team for many years” and looks forward to supporting the next generation of sports businesses.
• Meanwhile, FIA president has been in regular contact with Horner, and a potential return to F1—either with Alpine or a BYD-backed entry—remains a hot topic in the paddock.

What’s next:

As the 2026 season progresses, Horner’s advisory role may be temporary or a bridge to a full-time F1 comeback. If he returns, it could reshape the competitive order—especially given the new regulations and power unit changes coming into effect this year. For now, his move into private equity adds an intriguing chapter to one of F1’s most successful careers.