Christian Horner has already been tipped to take up a new role within Formula 1 after his Red Bull sacking.
On Wednesday morning, shock news emerged from the F1 world that Horner has been dismissed as Red Bull's team principal and CEO.
The team, based in Milton Keynes, acted swiftly as Laurent Mekies was announced as the new CEO before being later confirmed as team principal.
Since the news broke, reigning world champion and Red Bull superstar Max Verstappen took to social media to pay tribute to Horner.
Advert
He wrote: "From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!"
Immediately after the news was confirmed, all the attention has switched to Horner's next move.
The 51-year-old has been linked with a move to Ferrari, which Horner has previously spoken about.
Advert
However, speaking last month, ex-F1 driver Ralf Schumacher tipped Horner to take up a new role at another team, in the shape of French constructor Alpine.
At the time, Schumacher claimed that Horner could be tempted if he was offered shares of the team.
A similar deal was made last year to lure Red Bull designer Adrian Newey to Aston Martin.
As reported by The Sun, Schumacher said on a Sky Germany podcast: "(Flavio) Briatore (Executive advisor at Alpine) is looking for a good new team boss. And he and Horner know and respect each other. I believe this is what he has always wanted and never achieved at Red Bull Racing.
Advert
"It’s something he couldn’t get anywhere else. That’s why I think he might be very interested in moving to Alpine as the boss."
What has Flavio Briatore said about Christian Horner's Red Bull exit?
Taking to social media, Briatore also paid tribute to Horner after his Red Bull exit.
Advert
The 75-year-old wrote: "20 years at the top says it all. A competitor on the track but also a friend off track.
"Well done on your achievements @christianhorner at @redbullracing and Wishing you all the best on your next adventure. Forza Christian!"
F1 will return at the end of July with the Belgian Grand Prix, taking place around the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps.
Topics: Christian Horner, Formula 1, Red Bull Racing
Marcus Chan