Racing
© Jonathan Borba
Christian Horner has confirmed his first official role since exiting Red Bull, joining Oakley Capital as an adviser on investments in premium sports while speculation over a Formula 1 return continues.
Oakley Capital said on Thursday that Horner will work with the private equity firm on its strategy in the sector, adding one of F1’s most successful recent team bosses to a portfolio that already includes sailing’s Athena Racing, the British America’s Cup bid, and padel and golf brands including Nox and Vice.
The move marks Horner’s first confirmed post since Red Bull dismissed him last season, ending a 20-year run in charge of the team. Horner became Formula 1’s youngest team principal when he took over in 2005 and went on to lead Red Bull to 124 grands prix wins, eight drivers’ championships with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, and six constructors’ titles.
In the announcement, Horner said: “Sports businesses are benefitting from growing global audiences and participation rates as more people embrace healthier, active lifestyles.” He added that he was looking forward to “sharing my experience to help support the next generation of standout sports businesses.”
Oakley Capital founder and managing partner Peter Dubens said: “Christian is widely recognised as a highly successful leader in global sport.” Dubens added: “His track record, expertise and commercial instinct will be invaluable as we continue to scale our sports portfolio.”
Even with the Oakley appointment, Horner’s longer-term direction still appears tied to F1. He continues to be linked with a consortium pursuing Otro Capital’s 24% stake in Alpine, while reports have also connected him to talks with Chinese carmaker BYD over a possible 12th Formula 1 team.
That leaves Horner with a first confirmed role outside the paddock, but one that does little to quiet the sense that his main target remains a route back onto the grid.