Alonso-Red Bull Talks: Horner Confirms 2025 Discussions

Red Bull confirms 2025 discussions with Alonso before his Aston Martin extension.

Fernando Alonso was indeed considered for a seat at Red Bull Racing from 2025!

This revelation came from Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, in Mexico. He confirmed having held a conversation with Alonso earlier in the 2024 season regarding a potential transfer to the reigning world champion team. However, the Spaniard ultimately extended his contract with Aston Martin F1.

It is well known that both parties have had discussions in the past, notably in 2009, and Horner acknowledged there were further talks at the beginning of this year.

“Fernando is a formidable competitor, and at the end of his stint with McLaren in 2008, I remember going to Madrid and urging him to join our team.”

“We wanted to secure him on a two-year deal, but he was only willing to sign for one, and we were convinced he already had a Ferrari contract lined up.”

“Therefore, we couldn’t reach an agreement, and had he joined us in 2009, perhaps things would have unfolded a bit differently.”

“Even halfway through the 2009 season, he was convinced that if he got into our car, he could still win the championship that year.”

“That was when we had a conversation; I recall meeting him with Adrian [Newey] in the back of a rental car at Spa airport. I believe it was around 2011, 2011 or 2012. Then he opted for Ferrari, and we spoke again at the beginning of this year.”

“It’s incredible—his longevity, his competitiveness, his talent, his abilities… but with only two world championships, he should have won more.”

Horner’s version aligns with Alonso’s recent revelation that he had spoken to rival teams before signing a contract extension with Aston Martin through 2026.

Horner explained that discussions with Alonso took place at a time when Sergio Perez’s contract had yet to be extended.

“At that time, Sergio’s contract hadn’t been renewed, so, as an experienced driver, Fernando always wants to know all his options. He and his manager or advisor, Flavio [Briatore], are always testing the market.”

“And it highlights just how hungry and competitive he is, still performing at the highest level at 43.”

“He remains in top shape, which just proves that age is only a number. So yes, he’s still a very capable, first-rate driver, and I’m sure he’ll continue to be up at the front.”