Christian Horner has been at the center of speculation regarding a potential move to Ferrari following his departure from Red Bull, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Fred Vasseur’s role at the Italian team. However, former F1 vice-champion Riccardo Patrese has dismissed the possibility of Horner joining Ferrari, citing concerns about the team’s image and reputation.
Discussions about Horner moving to Ferrari are not new, dating back to 2022 when Mattia Binotto was leading the Scuderia. Despite the talks, no decision was reached as Horner intended to remain with Red Bull longer. Yet, after a series of allegations that affected his standing within the F1 community, Horner eventually left Red Bull, leaving him available for new opportunities.
Speculation about Horner replacing Vasseur intensified due to doubts about Vasseur’s management, but Patrese argued that Ferrari is unlikely to partner with Horner, given the team’s desire to sustain a certain public image. Patrese emphasized the turbulence Ferrari experienced recently and suggested it has since stabilized under Vasseur’s guidance:
“There has been a lot of criticism of [Ferrari] because of the results, and they are up and down with no consistency. But after the storms and tornadoes at Ferrari, I think the air is getting better. At the moment, everything is quiet around Vasseur – the speculation has stopped.”
—Riccardo Patrese, Former F1 Vice-Champion
“Horner is very good, but I think the stories from last year would be a problem. He has a very good pedigree and can put 20 years of success on the table – but one year on, people are still talking about that story… But Ferrari wants to have an image – and not many distractions. That’s my opinion.”
—Riccardo Patrese, Former F1 Vice-Champion
Despite ongoing doubts, the Scuderia’s performance under Vasseur has seen improvement. The team achieved the only victory outside Red Bull in 2023 and was a close contender for the 2024 constructors‘ championship.
Support for Fred Vasseur’s Leadership from Toto Wolff
Amid the swirling rumors about Fred Vasseur’s future at Ferrari, Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes, publicly backed the Frenchman’s continued leadership of the team. Wolff expressed confidence that Vasseur remains the best fit to guide Ferrari forward despite some criticisms.
Wolff highlighted Vasseur’s passion as a necessary quality for running a top F1 team and indicated that Ferrari should offer him the trust needed to lead without distraction:
“That’s the passion that is in there. You’ve got to embrace that. Maybe that’s something he (Fred Vasseur) needs to learn. But the rest, he should be given the confidence in running this team. They won’t get anybody better.”
—Toto Wolff, Mercedes Team Principal
Currently, at the midpoint of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Ferrari is positioned second in the constructors‘ championship standings, trailing McLaren.
Why the Christian Horner Ferrari Move Remains Unlikely
Despite the persistent rumors, the idea of Christian Horner switching to Ferrari faces significant obstacles. Patrese’s insights suggest Ferrari prioritizes a stable image and wishes to avoid controversies connected to Horner’s recent challenges. Although Horner boasts a strong track record spanning two decades, lingering issues from the past year continue to overshadow his reputation in the paddock.
Meanwhile, Vasseur’s steadying influence and Ferrari’s recent on-track successes reinforce the team’s confidence in their current leadership. Wolff’s endorsement further strengthens the proposition that Ferrari is not seeking a change at the helm, preferring continuity as they pursue championship ambitions.
With these factors combined, the Christian Horner Ferrari switch rumors are unlikely to materialize, signaling that the Scuderia will maintain its current path under Fred Vasseur’s management for the foreseeable future.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, the number 13 can be used. Pastor Maldonado chose #13 when the permanent numbering started in 2014. Despite being unlucky in some cultures, F1 lets drivers decide their numbers.
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A. Lewis Hamilton. Sir Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British Formula One driver who races for Mercedes and previously drove for McLaren. He openly talks about having ADHD and shares his various interests and passions.