From paddock to pitlane: Christian Horner spots F1 and MotoGP chemistry at Spanish Grand Prix

Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images

Former F1 team principal Christian Horner was seen at the Spanish Grand Prix this weekend, attending his first MotoGP event since 2005.

Horner, who attended as a guest of MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group (formerly Dorna Sports), was also seen having dinner with the company’s CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, on Friday night.

Horner’s appearance comes after he departed from Red Bull Racing. While he has been linked to various roles within Formula 1, nothing has materialised so far. Martin Brundle recently mentioned MotoGP as a potential next step for him.

Following his exit from Red Bull Racing, Horner has been in talks with several F1 teams about a possible return. His appearance at Jerez this weekend has added to speculation about his plans.

Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images

Christian Horner says he sees F1 and MotoGP growing closer after Jerez trip

Speaking to MotoGP’s Jack Appleyard inside the paddock at Jerez, Horner reflected on how much the sport had changed since he last attended a race nearly two decades ago.

“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.”

The 52-year-old didn’t give anything away but did point out that there are now more connections between F1 and MotoGP with Liberty Media involved in both sports.

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.