'I FELT SORRY FOR FRED' - HORNER ON FERRARI TEAM BOSS RUMOURS

Horner put the Ferrari rumors to rest on The Race F1 Podcast, calling the September speculation "unfortunate" timing. An interview he gave The Times—conducted a month before publication—praised Ferrari as "the biggest brand in Formula 1" and "the dream." When it dropped during Monza week, already a rough stretch for Fred Vasseur, the quotes sparked talk Horner might replace him. Ferrari convened a press conference to publicly back Vasseur.

Horner says the headline twisted his words. He was describing Ferrari's unique place in the sport, not declaring personal ambition. "I felt sorry for Fred," he told The Race, adding he's "focused on other options" and not "petitioning for" the job. He credited Vasseur as "very capable" with "great pedigree" but noted Ferrari's pressure as a de facto national team. His advice: Vasseur needs more time. Translation: Horner's staying put at Red Bull.