Ferrari rumors additional intensify as Christian Horner linked to Maranello transfer for 2026

Rumors of Ferrari’s curiosity in Christian Horner first surfaced between Could and June, when the British staff principal was nonetheless contractually certain to Purple Bull Racing. Nonetheless, by the top of September, Horner formally departed the Milton Keynes outfit, and in latest days his title has as soon as once more been linked to the Italian Scuderia — this time with new particulars including gas to the story.

It’s price noting that Ferrari solely lately renewed the contract of Frédéric Vasseur as staff principal, signaling a choice for continuity regardless of the disappointing end result of the 2025 System 1 challenge. Giving the Frenchman one other alternative was seen as probably the most cheap transfer, particularly with the game making ready for probably the most important regulatory overhaul in its historical past. But, because the state of affairs evolves, that call might quickly be revisited.

Horner in purple as early as 2026?

Based on reviews revealed by the Italian every day newspaper Tuttosport, “Horner could be free to work in System 1 with one other staff at first of 2026, and John Elkann — underneath stress for Ferrari’s sporting outcomes, but in addition for the market’s poor response to the commercial plan and the launch of the electrical Ferrari — want to ship a powerful message regardless of Fred Vasseur’s contract renewal signed lower than three months in the past. Ferrari has not formally denied the rumors, even when shock has unfold in an space that appeared settled. Particularly for media causes, though the authorized case is now resolved.”

Christian Horner’s contract with Red Bull was initially legitimate till 2030, and his termination reportedly price the Austrian staff round €100 million. Nonetheless, what stands out most is the truth that no “gardening depart” clause seems to limit the British supervisor — which means he might theoretically be part of one other staff as early as subsequent yr.

Regardless of the rising hypothesis, it nonetheless appears unlikely that Horner shall be seen in Ferrari colours by 2026. It’s much more possible that the Maranello management will enable Frédéric Vasseur to proceed by way of the 2026 season, after which a remaining resolution shall be made primarily based on his efficiency. Changing the French staff principal at this stage would make little sense, as he and his technical group are already deeply concerned in creating Ferrari’s subsequent automobile.

Fred Vasseur is absolutely conscious that 2026 shall be a make-or-break season for him. After a disappointing 2025 marketing campaign, he has been given a vital alternative to redeem himself, however the stress stays immense. Every little thing now will depend on whether or not Ferrari can flip its fortunes round in time — and as at all times in System 1, nothing needs to be taken without any consideration.