BYD option is being discussed for Horner

The BYD option is being discussed for Christian Horner's return to Formula 1. Former Red Bull executive Richard Hopkins evaluated this possibility.

Scraper SystemJune 04, 2026, 11:43 AM

BYD option is being discussed for Horner

With Christian Horner's plans to return to Formula 1, the BYD option has also come to the agenda. Former Red Bull F1 executive Richard Hopkins said that the contacts between Horner and BYD have gained remarkable momentum.

Horner was removed from his operational role after last year's British Grand Prix and then officially left Red Bull in September. The separation process is estimated to have ended with a deal worth about 100 million dollars. Thus, there is no official obstacle for Horner's return to the Formula 1 paddock.

The experienced executive has recently been associated with different possibilities. The option to reunite with Adrian Newey at Aston Martin, the possibility of replacing Fred Vasseur at Ferrari, and the scenario of buying shares with an investment group at Alpine had been discussed before.

The newly emerging topic is the Chinese electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturer BYD. It was reported that Horner had multiple meetings with BYD Vice President Stella Li in Cannes, and the company shared images from an event attended by Horner.

Stella Li had previously stated that BYD was interested in the Formula 1 project and had held talks with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. This situation also brought comments that the company might be looking for a broader racing project, not just sponsorship.

Hopkins argued that Horner and BYD could complement each other. According to him, Horner is looking for a structure where he would not only be a team principal but also a shareholder in his new step; BYD might want to work with a name with a strong winning culture.

Hopkins noted that this possibility is being discussed more and more, stating that Horner still has a lot to say in the racing world. He also said that Horner might not only be open to becoming a team principal again, as the conditions have now shifted to a different point.

According to the former executive, due to Aston Martin not being for sale and possible closed doors on the Alpine front, BYD is becoming one of the prominent options for Horner. Hopkins thinks that if a new door is to be opened in the current situation, BYD could be one of the strongest addresses.

BYD option is being discussed for Horner

The BYD option is being discussed for Christian Horner's return to Formula 1. Former Red Bull executive Richard Hopkins evaluated this possibility.