The former CEO and team principal of the Milton Keynes outfit had made his last public appearance at the Silverstone Grand Prix before being relieved of his duties and replaced by Laurent Mekies.

Since then, public updates regarding his whereabouts have been scarce, with Horner largely disappearing from the spotlight. The only notable development came recently through Flavio Briatore, who confirmed the Briton’s interest in acquiring a 24% stake in Alpine — a share currently held by Otro Capital — via his own investment consortium.

Horner made his first public remarks since leaving Red Bull while attending the European Motor Show in Dublin, where he stepped back into the media spotlight and revealed that he still believes he has unfinished business in Formula 1.

He then added: “I would only go back for the right opportunity to work with great people, and to work in an environment where people want to win, and they shared that desire. I would want to be a partner, rather than just a hired hand, but we will see how it plays out. I am not in a rush. I don’t need to do anything."

Finally, when asked about what his next move might be, Horner chose to keep his cards close to his chest, avoiding any firm hints and refusing to fuel further speculation.