From Motorsport · Alex Harrington · · 1m 30s
Christian Horner's Red Bull Driver Search
Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner reveals he wanted Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc for 2025 season but both were rejected.
In brief
Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner reveals he wanted Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc for 2025 season but both were rejected. Christian Horner says he tried to sign Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc for Red Bull's 2025 driver seat but both were rejected by Max Verstappen's team. Originally reported by…
Christian Horner's 2025 Driver Search
Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner revealed he wanted Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc for Red Bull's 2025 driver seat.
Alonso's Interest in 2025
Alonso confirmed his interest to Horner during the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix, saying he wanted to drive alongside Max Verstappen next season.
Verstappen's Team Rejection
Helmut Marko, on behalf of Verstappen's management team, told Horner they were not happy with Alonso's desire to drive alongside Max Verstappen.
Leclerc's Potential Fit
Horner thought Leclerc was fast, strong over one lap, and had a determined character, making him a good fit for Red Bull's 2025 driver seat.
Leclerc Rejected Too
Helmut Marko, on behalf of Verstappen's management team, told Horner Leclerc was not a viable option for Red Bull's 2025 driver seat.
Horner's Disappointment
Horner knew the decision wasn't from Max Verstappen but someone else who decided Red Bull shouldn't sign Alonso or Leclerc for 2025.
Liam Lawson Promoted
Red Bull promoted Liam Lawson to the 2025 driver seat after both Alonso and Leclerc were rejected, but Horner felt he was too inexperienced for the role.
Here's the gist
Christian Horner says he tried to sign Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc for Red Bull's 2025 driver seat but both were rejected by Max Verstappen's team.
