Christian Horner lands new role following Red Bull departure

Almost a year on from his Red Bull departure, which brought an end to a glorious two-decade spell filled with trophies and titles that turned the Milton Keynes outfit into one of Formula 1’s elite teams, the Briton has yet to reveal his next move in motorsport. However, he has now officially done so outside of it.

Speaking about his new role, Horner explained that sports businesses are currently benefiting from rapidly growing global audiences and increasing participation levels driven by healthier and more active lifestyles. He also revealed that he has known and respected Peter and the Oakley Capital team for many years, praising their approach to developing ambitious founder-led companies.

Oakley Capital founder and managing partner Peter Dubens described Horner as one of the most successful and recognisable leaders in global sport, stressing that his experience, leadership qualities and commercial vision will prove extremely valuable for the company’s future ambitions within the sports sector.

He also outlined how Oakley remains focused on investing in ambitious founder-led companies capable of strong long-term growth and stable revenues, while simultaneously identifying undervalued sports assets with significant commercial upside still waiting to be fully explored. Dubens added that the company believes Horner’s experience and business instincts will play an important role in helping maximise those opportunities moving forward.

Speculation surrounding Horner’s future has intensified once again after a recent image emerged showing the former Red Bull team principal alongside BYD vice-president Stella Li. The photo immediately sparked fresh discussion across the paddock, particularly amid ongoing rumours linking the Chinese automotive giant with a possible long-term Formula 1 project.

Interest surrounding BYD’s potential involvement has continued to grow ever since reports earlier this season suggested the company was evaluating opportunities connected to Formula 1 ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix. The manufacturer has rapidly become one of the biggest names in the global automotive industry, establishing itself as a major force within the electric vehicle sector while significantly expanding its international presence.

Formula 1’s future direction appears increasingly aligned with the technological philosophy promoted by companies such as BYD. With the championship continuing to push towards greater electrification and sustainable innovation through its upcoming regulations, the possibility of attracting new automotive manufacturers has naturally become more realistic.

Across two decades at Red Bull, Horner played a central role in turning the Milton Keynes-based outfit into one of the defining teams of the modern Formula 1 era. His experience in assembling winning structures, attracting elite personnel and managing championship campaigns has made him one of the most respected and influential figures in the paddock.