“No interview” and “no plan” to recruit Christian Horner. That’s the categorical statement from Dan Towriss, CEO of the Cadillac Formula 1 team, who firmly denied the rumors circulating on social media. These speculations linked the former Red Bull Racing boss to the new American structure following his tumultuous dismissal last month.
An official denial at the press conference
Speaking at a press conference announcing the team’s first drivers, Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, Dan Towriss wanted to put an end to all speculation. “There has been no interview with Christian Horner, and there is no plan to do so,” he stated. “I want to officially put an end to this rumor. Our support, trust, and approval go entirely to [our current team principal] Graeme Lowdon.”
The shadow of the scandal and perception in the paddock
While opinions on Christian Horner vary in the Formula 1 paddock, the general perception is that he has become persona non grata in the boardrooms of many manufacturers. This status stems directly from the 2024 Google Drive scandal and the controversial handling of the inappropriate behavior allegations by Red Bull. Many believe the matter was mishandled and that it illustrates how the powerful often manage to avoid the consequences of their actions.
A question of morality in F1 recruitment?
The question arises as to whether this scandal, or another factor, will prevent Christian Horner from finding employment in Formula 1 again. The history of motorsport shows a certain short-term amnesia, as evidenced by Flavio Briatore’s return after a race-fixing scandal. Perhaps morality simply isn’t a decisive criterion in the hiring decisions of some teams. Regardless, the Cadillac management does not appear interested in the services of the former Red Bull director.