Susie Wolff has reignited discussions about Christian Horner’s leadership style, suggesting that the longtime Red Bull boss “played a character” throughout his tenure. Wolff, who currently heads the F1 Academy and is married to Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, hinted that Horner’s public persona was more performative than authentic. Her remarks have added fresh tension to the ongoing rivalry between the Mercedes and Red Bull camps.
Horner, who has led Red Bull Racing since 2005, has long been known for his outspoken and sometimes divisive presence in the paddock. Under his leadership, Red Bull achieved enormous success, winning multiple Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships. However, Wolff’s comments imply that Horner’s approach may have been driven more by image management than pure leadership substance, a claim that has sparked strong reactions across the F1 community.
Elsewhere, McLaren CEO Zak Brown responded to comments made by IndyCar champion Alex Palou regarding Oscar Piastri’s recruitment. Palou claimed he had little influence or awareness of McLaren’s decision to sign Piastri, implying that his own contract situation played out beyond his control. Brown dismissed this assertion, explaining that McLaren’s driver choices are made strategically and independently to benefit the team’s long-term future.
In Ferrari news, speculation continues to swirl around team principal Fred Vasseur’s future with the Scuderia. Despite his efforts to stabilize the team since taking charge, reports suggest internal uncertainty persists about his leadership, especially amid recent performance inconsistencies. These doubts have left Ferrari’s management facing renewed scrutiny as they assess their direction heading into the 2026 season.
Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz is confirmed to miss an upcoming FP1 session, fueling further discussion about Ferrari’s short-term plans and potential lineup changes. His absence, combined with the ongoing questions surrounding Vasseur and broader team dynamics, contributes to a turbulent atmosphere within Maranello. As the F1 world prepares for the next race, the paddock remains alive with speculation and subtle digs between rival figures.
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