Ferrari created an earthquake for the entire F1 with Horner’s contract after he left Red Bull at the request of an unexpected request from Lewis Hamilton himself.

The Formula 1 world was turned upside down by a sensational announcement on July 10, 2025: Ferrari confirmed the hiring of Christian Horner as its new team principal, just days after his hasty departure from Red Bull Racing. This change, which gripped the paddock briefly, sparked intense speculation and debate, with an unexpected question from Ferrari’s star driver, Lewis Hamilton, adding even more suspense to an already dramatic story. This development not only reshapes Ferrari’s future, but also impacts the entire sport, raising questions about team dynamics, championship ambitions, and the balance of power in F1.

Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull, announced on July 9, 2025, ended a 20-year association with the team, which had won six manufacturers’ championships and eight drivers’ titles under his leadership. His departure followed a tumultuous period marked by internal tensions, a clandestine scandal in 2024 involving allegations of inappropriate driving (of which he denounced), and Red Bull’s on-track struggles in 2025. While the team was crumbling to fourth place in the manufacturers’ standings and star driver Verstappen was considering a move to Mercedes, he was faced with a series of grievances from Laurent Mekies, former Ferrari boss. The announcement sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, but no one could have predicted the continuation: Ferrari was closing in on Horner’s services.

Ferrari’s interest in Horner isn’t entirely new. As early as May 2025, rumors suggested that Ferrari president John Elkann had approached Horner to replace Fred Vasseur, whose leadership was under scrutiny due to Ferrari’s inconsistent performances this season. Despite the high hopes raised by the 2025 season with the signing of Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari is struggling to compete with McLaren, the manufacturers’ championship leader. Horner, with his proven track record of building successful teams, was perceived as a potential asset for the team. However, previous rumors were denied by Horner and Ferrari, making this announcement even more surprising.

Adding some suspense to this saga is Lewis Hamilton’s alleged involvement in Horner’s promotion. Sources close to Ferrari have revealed that Hamilton, who joined the team in 2025 to try to secure an eighth world championship title, made an unexpected request during internal discussions. The seven-time world champion reportedly insisted that Ferrari recruit a team director with a winning spirit to maximize the team’s potential under the highly competitive 2026 regulations. Hamilton’s history with Horner is complex, with a win-for-win streak. However, Hamilton’s apparent support for Horner suggests a pragmatic approach, favoring success despite past tensions.

Horner’s arrival at Ferrari is a bold move for the stable of Maranello, which hasn’t won a manufacturer’s championship since 2008. His leadership style, characterized by strategic acumen and a gift for developing talent, could provide Ferrari with the spark it needs to return to the top. At Red Bull, Horner spearheaded the rise of Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, winning 124 Grand Prix victories and 107 pole positions. His ability to manage pressure environments and complex team dynamics will be crucial for Ferrari to capitalize on their driver duo of Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, both eager for success.

Tuttavia, questa decisione non è priva di rischi. La personalità di Horner, amplificata dalle sue apparizioni nella serie Netflix “Guidare per sopravvivere“, And his controversial past could create friction within the traditionally insular culture of Ferrari. In addition, his relationship with Hamilton, although apparently reinforced by the pilot’s requirements, will be closely monitored. The 2021 season was marked by stormy exchanges between Horner and former Hamilton team director Toto Wolff, and some wonder if old injuries could resurface under the intense pressure of Ferrari expectations.

The broader implications for F1 are equally important. Horner’s departure from Red Bull has fueled speculation about Verstappen’s future, with Mercedes reportedly in talks to lure the quadruple champion. Ferrari’s bold decision to secure Horner could further destabilize the grid, while teams are reassuring their strategies ahead of regulatory changes in 2026. Meanwhile, Laurent Mekies’ appointment at Red Bull marks the beginning of a new era for the Milton Keynes stable, but doubts remain about his ability to replace him.

For Ferrari fans, Horner’s arrival is a declaration of intent. The team’s decision to act quickly and decisively, combined with Hamilton’s unexpected influence, strengthens its resolve to end its title drought. As the Belgian Grand Prix rapidly approaches, all eyes will be on Maranello to see if this radical change will allow Ferrari to achieve the much-desired success. The 2025 season, already full of surprises, has become even more unpredictable.