HORNER: “WE’VE TRIED TO SIGN ALONSO MANY TIMES”
Christian Horner has revealed that he’s had several talks with Fernando Alonso about joining Red Bull in the past, even recently discussing a potential move for the 2025 season.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner confirmed that he had conversations with Alonso dating back to 2008. “After he left McLaren, I went to Madrid to bring him into the team,” he said. “We wanted a two-year deal, but he only wanted a one-year contract. We were convinced he had a Ferrari deal lined up, so we couldn’t reach an agreement.”
Horner mentioned that Alonso believed he could have won the championship had he joined Red Bull mid-season in 2009. “We also had another meeting. I remember sitting in the back of a rental car at Spa Airport with Newey and Alonso around 2011 or 2012, discussing the possibility of moving from Ferrari to us.”
Horner praised Alonso’s consistency and competitiveness, noting, “His two world championships don’t fully reflect his talent. He should have won more.”
He also confirmed that earlier this year, Alonso’s manager, Flavio Briatore, reached out to explore a possible Red Bull deal. “At that time, Sergio’s contract hadn’t yet been extended. As an experienced driver, Fernando always wants to know his options. He and Flavio have always been in touch with the market, which shows how hungry and competitive he still is,” Horner continued.
“Age is just a number. He’s still a highly talented grand prix driver, and with the right car, I’m sure he could still fight at the front.”
