Christian Horner Set for Major Advantage Over Red Bull if He Makes F1 Return

Christian Horner could potentially hold an advantage over Red Bull if he makes a return to Formula 1.

Horner, 52, was relieved of his duties as Red Bull Team Principal and CEO back in July, on the back of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

The Englishman was swiftly replaced by Laurent Mekies, who was promoted from sister team, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

Since Mekies took over, Red Bull enjoyed an upturn in form, allowing Max Verstappen to mount a late charge for the world championship.

However, the Dutchman was ultimately left disappointed as he finished two points behind McLaren's Lando Norris.

Since his departure, Horner has constantly been linked with a move back to the sport, with the likes of Ferrari and Aston Martin all mentioned as potential suitors.

On Tuesday night, it was reported that Horner has been in talks to join Alpine in 2026.

According to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, the 52-year-old could join the French team as soon as spring next year, when his gardening leave after his Red Bull departure will be over.

However, Horner's potential role at Alpine remains unclear.

If he does join Alpine next season, he could hold an advantage over his former team.

Christian Horner has been linked with a move to Alpine. Image: Getty

This is due to Alpine moving away from Renault to Mercedes as their power unit supplier.

With new regulations set to kick in next year, paddock rumours have suggested that Mercedes could be the team with the best power unit.

As a result, customer teams such as Alpine, McLaren and Williams could have an advantage over the rest of the grid.

Speaking recently on the Sky Sports F1 Show, reporter Simon Lazenby said: "Next year, let's say, you've got that Mercedes engine is seriously better than the others. If we assume that the equipment provided, maybe Mercedes will have an advantage because they are the works team.

"There are four teams with a good (driver) pairing. Maybe we can dial the pairing down a little bit for Alpine as they are still reconstructing. But let's say, a settled team at Williams, McLaren and Mercedes, all going at it in reasonably equal machinery."

The 2026 F1 season will begin in March with the Australian Grand Prix, taking place around Albert Park in Melbourne.