Former Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone has denied rumors linking him with Christian Horner to acquire a share in Alpine, stating that Lewis Hamilton‘s chance of securing his eighth title is more plausible than such a deal materializing. Ecclestone’s remarks came ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix amid speculation about Horner’s future following recent changes at Red Bull Racing.

Leadership Change at Red Bull Racing Sparks Speculation

On 9 July, Red Bull Racing announced that Christian Horner would be replaced as CEO and team principal by Laurent Mekies immediately. While the official reasons for this sudden leadership shift were not disclosed, poor team performance during the current Formula 1 season and the departure of several key personnel are widely believed to have influenced the decision. Ecclestone described the move as somewhat harsh, recognizing the difficult circumstances Red Bull faced.

Ecclestone Reflects on Horner’s Departure and Future Prospects

Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Ecclestone said,

“This is how it was dealt with. I had made it known to our friends there that maybe it was a little bit ruthless, perhaps, to do it in the way they did it, but they didn’t have much choice.”

He added,

“They decided this is what they were going to do and that’s it. They had to get on and do it.”

Despite the speculation about Horner’s next steps, including talks about potentially partnering with Ecclestone to invest in Alpine, the former F1 boss decisively ruled out this possibility.

“I think there is more chance of Lewis winning his eighth title than that happening,”

Ecclestone stated.

Thoughts on Lewis Hamilton’s Career and Prospects

Ecclestone praised Hamilton for his enduring talent and achievements, acknowledging the driver’s continued competitiveness in the sport. However, he also expressed concern over Hamilton’s well-being and hinted that perhaps it might be time for the seven-time world champion to contemplate stepping back.

“I think Lewis has done a fantastic job. He’s still super talented. I think maybe he ought to sort of move over a little bit. It’d be terrible if something happened to him now. That’s what’s bad.”

Uncertainty Surrounding Horner’s Return to Formula 1

When questioned about whether Horner might return to Formula 1 in another capacity, Ecclestone was uncertain. He noted that Horner’s ambitions included having ownership in a team rather than merely holding a management position.

“I don’t know how and where or whether he wants to. Probably doesn’t want to. Because the position he really wanted at Red Bull was to own part of the team. Unless he gets somebody to put the money up to buy a team, I can’t see it happening.”

Implications for Formula 1’s Competitive Landscape

The reshuffling of leadership at Red Bull Racing marks a significant moment in this year’s Formula 1 season, highlighting challenges even the most successful teams face. Meanwhile, Bernie Ecclestone’s insights underline ongoing uncertainties about key figures’ futures in the sport, while also spotlighting Lewis Hamilton’s remarkable resilience and his continued pursuit of an unprecedented eighth world title. How these developments unfold will influence team dynamics and championship battles as the season progresses.