Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has revealed why he rejected an approach from Ferrari to replace Mattia Binotto, with the Italian having resigned following the conclusion of the 2022 season.
Ferrari certainly went all out to try and poach Horner from Red Bull for 2023, with the Maranello-based outfit having called the Brit to offer him the role.
Horner has revealed that he was “flattered” to be offered Binotto’s team principal job, but that his “loyalty” lies with the Austrians.
Given that he’s been in charge of the Milton Keynes-based team since they joined the grid in 2005, it’s completely understandable why he feels “responsible” for the Austrians, with his 20th year as Red Bull boss also fast approaching.
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“I was flattered by the call from Ferrari,” Horner told Auto Motor und Sport.
“I’ve been at Red Bull since the beginning and feel responsible for the team.
“I feel a loyalty to Red Bull and of course to the people who work here. When you work with such a fantastic team, why would you go anywhere else?”
Horner has built a formidable team at Red Bull, with the Austrians having claimed six Drivers’ Championships and five Constructors’ Championships in their 18-year existence.
By building a frontrunning team from scratch, Horner has earned himself an incredible reputation, of being a hard-fought winner.
A winner is arguably what Ferrari need most, something that new team boss Frederic Vasseur could potentially be.
Horner is convinced that the Italians are still going to be strong this year despite having rejected them, with the Red Bull boss having never considered leaving the Austrians.
“I’ve never been tempted to walk away,” Horner said.
“Ferrari are a great team and I’m sure they will be very competitive.”
With Horner having rejected Ferrari’s proposal, it appears the only interaction the duo will have is on the track, but could a former Ferrari employee make a move in the other direction?
Horner was asked if Red Bull would ever consider hiring Binotto given that he’s now a free agent, with the Italian being regarded as one of the best technical advisors in the paddock.
The Red Bull boss believes Binotto’s best bet at returning to F1 is “further down the grid”, with there being no place for him at the reigning Constructors’ champions.
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“I don’t see what role he could have played here,” Horner added.
“Obviously last year was difficult for him at Ferrari.
“Perhaps he will have opportunities in some teams further down the grid.”