Aston Martin has made an approach to Christian Horner, the former Red Bull team principal, to take over their struggling Formula One team, according to reports. This renewed contact comes as Horner, 52, weighs his options following his departure from Red Bull 12 months ago.
Lance Stroll, the Canadian billionaire owner of Aston Martin, has long expressed interest in Horner's services and was close to signing him a few months prior, though a deal did not materialize.
The approach from Aston Martin is seen as a response to the team's current performance issues. Despite significant investment, Aston Martin has secured only one point from eight races this season. Horner, who accepted an £80 million payoff from Red Bull, has stated he has "unfinished business" in Formula One.
Should Horner accept the role, he would join Adrian Newey, his long-time design collaborator from Red Bull, at Aston Martin's facilities near Silverstone.
Other potential career paths for Horner include a move to Ferrari, as suggested by former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone. Additionally, Horner has explored opportunities with other teams, including investigating a potential investment in Alpine alongside private equity firm Otro Capital, which is looking to sell its 24% stake. Another possibility is the establishment of a new, 12th Formula One team, a venture Horner has tentatively discussed with Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, though this would likely delay his return by approximately five years.
Horner has not commented on Aston Martin's latest overtures. A spokesperson for Aston Martin stated, "In keeping with our policy we do not comment on rumour and speculation."