Marco Bezzecchi
Former F1 team principal Christian Horner raised eyebrows as he made an appearance at the Spanish Grand Prix today, marking his first visit to a MotoGP race since 2005.
It’s understood that Horner was inside the paddock as a guest of MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group (formerly Dorna Sports), and was spotted at dinner with the company’s CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, on Friday night.
No one could rival Marc Marquez and Johann Zarco in qualifying at Jerez – But can Marco Bezzecchi remain perfect in the Grand Prix format? 🤔
Interestingly, it marks the British executive’s first public appearance at a motorsport event since he was sacked from his post as the team principal of Formula 1’s Red Bull Racing, and MotoGP has been touted as a possible destination for him by Martin Brundle.
Horner has since been trying to secure a deal with several F1 teams in a bid to return to the paddock, which has raised questions over his appearance at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez this weekend.
- READ MORE: Bernie Ecclestone tells Christian Horner to seek MotoGP role after Red Bull exit is confirmed
Christian Horner expects ‘synergy’ between F1 and MotoGP after visiting Jerez
After being collared by MotoGP’s Jack Appleyard inside the paddock at Jerez, Horner shared his sentiments over the premier class of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, highlighting the development that the series has undergone since his last visit to the paddock in 2005.
“The series is under new management, the same as Formula 1, and it’s great to see the motorbikes and observe how they’ve developed,” he said via Speedweek. “I think the last time I was at a MotoGP race was in Estoril in 2005, so it’s been a while.
“I think it’s a really interesting time for MotoGP. It, too, is going through a phase of change under new ownership. That’s why I wanted to come here and see for myself.”
What are your thoughts on MotoGP introducing team radio?
Let us know in the comments below!
Of course, the former Red Bull Racing team principal was also asked about him potentially seeking an involvement in MotoGP.
The 52-year-old remained tight-lipped, but noted how synonymous F1 and MotoGP are becoming due to Liberty Media’s arrival in the sport.
He added, “They’re great races, it’s a great show. The riders are incredible, the bikes are incredible. It’s only when you see it live that you appreciate just how insane these machines are. I believe this sport has so much to offer.
“Hopefully, the people at Liberty can benefit from their experience in Formula 1. I know that Stefano Domenicali is very committed – I’m here with him today. There are sure to be some synergy effects there.”
- READ MORE: Who is Tech3 MotoGP team owner Guenther Steiner? Haas F1 team history, net worth and more
Could Christian Horner replicate Guenther Steiner’s transition from F1 to MotoGP?
While MotoGP certainly could be on the cards for Horner’s future endeavours in motorsport, a move for a premier class outfit may not be in his immediate plans as he continues to seek a way back into F1.
However, he could very well replicate Guenther Steiner’s transition from managing four wheels to two. The Italian successfully purchased Tech3 from founder Herve Poncharal last season, and looks to turn the satellite team into a race-winning outfit.
Still, Horner is adamant about investing in a team rather than simply being an employee, and so a move for a MotoGP team certainly aligns with his aspirations.
Fans weren’t too happy about Steiner’s addition to the MotoGP paddock, so it remains to be seen how they would react if Horner were to strike a deal.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
