Horner: 'I haven't missed the politics and the b******t side of things'

The former Red Bull CEO and team principal made his return to the Formula 1 paddock at Silverstone last weekend, exactly one year after his dismissal. His departure paved the way for Laurent Mekies to take over the role, with the Frenchman overseeing a remarkable championship fight that saw Max Verstappen come agonisingly close to beating the two McLaren drivers to the world title.

Speaking to The Times, the Briton revealed that he still keeps in touch with many members of Red Bull, admitting it has been nice to maintain those relationships despite his departure. Horner acknowledged that he misses the competitive nature of Formula 1, but said he does not miss the political aspects of the sport or the off-track distractions that come with it. He also explained that stepping away from the relentless demands of running a team has given him a different perspective, allowing him to appreciate that there is more to life than Formula 1 alone.

The Brit believes Red Bull's strong turnaround during the second half of last season, which allowed Verstappen to come close to securing a fifth consecutive world title, would have happened regardless of his departure. Speaking to The Times, the former Red Bull team principal argued that meaningful changes in Formula 1 do not happen overnight, but instead take between nine and 12 months before their effects become visible on track. As a result, he suggested the progress made by Red Bull last season had already been set in motion well before his exit and would have unfolded in the same way.

Horner also reflected on his legacy at the Milton Keynes-based team, insisting it should be judged solely on what he achieved during his time in charge. Rather than focusing on how he will be remembered, he stressed that he is personally satisfied with everything he accomplished during his tenure and made it clear he is not looking for praise or public recognition.