Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has championed Ferrari signing Christian Horner to turn around its ailing fortunes.
Ferrari under Fred Vasseur enjoyed a renaissance in performance in 2024, the Scuderia finishing a close second in the Constructors’ Championship.
The momentum attracted Lewis Hamilton, with dreams across Italy of the seven-time world champion winning in the famous Ferrari red colours.
But 2025 turned into a nightmare, with all-too-familiar criticisms of strategic decision-making compounded by the uncompetitiveness of the SF-25.
While Vasseur kept his position as team boss, the pressure for a strong 2026 on-track is palpable at Maranello.
With Horner still a free agent and looking to return, Montoya believes the Briton could be the answer to Ferrari’s issues, with a major caveat attached.
“Honestly, yes,” Montoya said to Vision4Sport when asked if Horner could aid Ferrari.
“But Ferrari would have to understand it would be sh*t for two years and that this is a four year programme at least and they would have to be patient.
“They would have to be supportive as the team is rebuilding and everyone would have to appreciate that they will be heading somewhere strong together.
“You can’t have people running their mouths and talking bad about it. The media loves it when the bosses start running their mouth off.
“They need to be united. This is where Mercedes and McLaren do a mega job, by staying united and staying quiet and supporting their drivers.
“If Kimi Antonelli crashes and they go, ‘Oh, he’s young, he’s bright. Don’t worry about it, we’re happy that he crashed. It’s experience.”
Alpine still top destination for Christian Horner?
While Montoya has touted Ferrari as a possible destination, Horner is locked in negotiations to buy a minority stake in Alpine.
The Colombian believes the Enstone based team remains the most attractive option for the Briton.
“Alpine would be the best choice,” he said.
.”Alpine, has the Mercedes power unit. They’re based in England. They have everything. They’re close to where Red Bull is about 20 minutes, 30 minutes from Red Bull.
“I think if he could get involved with that team, it could do wonders for them.”
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