Ferrari's Bold Play: Poaching Horner to Boss Hamilton Around

By Lewis Barnett 27 May, 2025 5 mins read 82 Views

So apparently Ferrari thinks they can just waltz in and steal Red Bull's golden boy.

According to reports floating around the paddock (and honestly, who knows what's real anymore in this circus), the Praxis are making eyes at Christian Horner. Yeah, that Christian Horner – the guy who's been Red Bull's mastermind for two decades and overseen eight championship wins that made the rest of the grid look like amateurs.

The timing is... interesting. Horner's contract runs out in 2026, which in F1 terms might as well be tomorrow. And Ferrari? They're apparently ready to throw serious money at him to become Lewis Hamilton's new boss.

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The Red Bull Soap Opera Nobody Asked For

Here's where it gets messy. Horner and Helmut Marko have been going at each other like cats in a bag for months now. I talked to someone in the paddock last year who said you could literally feel the tension when either one walked into a room – "staff tense up" was how they put it.

Poor Max got dragged into this whole thing when his dad Jos started publicly calling for Horner's head. Remember that drama? Max actually threatened to quit if they sacked Marko. Can you imagine being so valuable that you can basically hold your employer hostage?

The latest spat was over who should replace Sergio Perez (and honestly, that whole situation was painful to watch). Marko wanted Liam Lawson, Horner was pushing for Franco Colapinto. They couldn't even agree on a driver without turning it into some kind of power struggle.

Why Ferrari Makes Zero Sense (But Also Perfect Sense)

Look, on paper this is nuts. Horner's been at Red Bull since 2005 – that's longer than some drivers have been alive. He was there for Vettel's dominant run, he's orchestrating Verstappen's current reign of terror. Why would he leave?

But then again... Ferrari is Ferrari. They've got that mystique, that history. Plus working with Hamilton could be intriguing – two Brits trying to bring the championship back to Maranello.

The German outlet Bild broke this story, and while they're usually pretty solid on F1 gossip, Horner himself is reportedly "keen to stay on at Red Bull." Which could mean anything from "absolutely not interested" to "show me the money."

The Verstappen Factor

Here's what makes this really complicated: Max. The kid (okay, he's 27 but still) has been incredibly loyal to Horner, even when his own father was stirring up trouble. Remember when Jos was apparently a "bigger fan" of Toto Wolff than Horner? That had to sting.

If Horner leaves, does Max follow? Mercedes certainly tried hard enough to poach him during all that drama with the inappropriate behavior allegations. Horner got cleared by Red Bull's investigation, but the damage to relationships was already done.

The whole thing feels like a house of cards sometimes. One wrong move and everything could collapse.

Ferrari's probably betting that all this internal strife makes Horner more open to a change of scenery. Smart play, honestly. Strike when the target is vulnerable.

Whether it actually happens? That's anyone's guess. But in a sport where loyalty lasts about as long as a tire stint, nothing would surprise me anymore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do Formula 1 teams create new cars?

Formula 1 teams usually develop a brand new car every season. This is due to the constant evolution of the technical regulations and the teams' relentless pursuit of performance gains. The teams will continue to update the car and make improvements throughout the season to ensure they have an edge on their rivals.

How is the Formula 1 world champion determined?

The Formula 1 World Champion will be determined by the total points earned throughout the entire season. Points are earned by drivers based upon their finishes in each Grand Prix. Those who place higher earn more points. At the end of each season, the driver with most points wins the title of World Champion. Constructors’ Championship is decided in a similar way by adding all the points that each team has scored.

Can Formula 1 Teams test their cars throughout the year?

Formula 1 teams cannot test their cars all year round. The FIA regulates testing sessions in pre-season as well as during the season. The limitations are there to control the costs and maintain an equal playing field. Teams are therefore required to make the most of the limited test opportunities available in order prepare their cars and collect data for the races that lie ahead.

How are Formula 1 cars built to ensure driver safety

Formula 1 vehicles are equipped with a number of cutting-edge features for driver protection. They include a strong monocoque made of carbon fiber, the Halo system for cockpit protection, energy-absorbing crash structure, and advanced technology in helmets. Each component is thoroughly tested and adheres strictly to the safety standards set forth by the FIA. This ensures that drivers are protected against different types of impacts.

Statistics

The highest number of cars to start a Formula 1 race was 34 at the 1953 German Grand Prix.
Ferrari is the most successful team in Formula 1 history, with 16 Constructors' Championships to their name.
Ayrton Senna holds the record for most consecutive pole positions, achieving a series of eight poles from the 1988 Spanish Grand Prix to the 1989 United States Grand Prix.
The 2020 Formula 1 season comprised the shortest calendar in recent history with just 17 races, due to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jenson Button accomplished the greatest number of overtakes in a single race, with a total of 26 during the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton has the most career wins of any driver in Formula 1, amassing over 100 victories.
Kimi Räikkönen holds the record for the fastest lap in Formula 1 history, set at the Italian Grand Prix in 2018 with an average speed of 263.587 km/h (163.785 mph).
The Monaco Grand Prix is the shortest race on the Formula 1 calendar, with a total race distance of only 260.286 kilometers.

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How to choose the right Formula 1 merchandise

Selecting the right Formula 1 merchandise requires consideration of certain key factors. If you're seeking apparel, opt for official merchandise to ensure quality and support the teams and drivers you admire. Verify authenticity when purchasing memorabilia such as signed items or model cars. Also, choose reputable dealers. Remember the value of historical items, such as those associated with historic races or legends drivers. They often have more sentimental value. Remember to also factor in the practicality and use you'll get from the merchandise to make the most of your purchase.