Haas confirm surprise approach from axed Red Bull boss Christian Horner

Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner approached Haas earlier this year for "exploratory talks" regarding a role with the American squad.

Having led the Milton Keynes-based team for 20 years, he was suddenly removed from his position shortly after the British Grand Prix earlier this year.

The 51-year-old then entered negotiations with Red Bull GmbH, which owns the racing team, to agree on his severance package, with the two parties striking a deal last month.

Horner has not been seen at the F1 paddock since his exit from the six-time constructors' champion in July.

However, it has been widely speculated that the Briton is seeking to return in a co-owner capacity, something he was unable to obtain at Red Bull.

In the first true hint that Horner is seeking a comeback to F1, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu revealed Horner had reached out for talks with the American outfit.

"Yeah, it's true that he approached us and then one of our guys had an exploratory talk," Komatsu told media including RacingNews365.

"Then that's it. Nothing has gone any further."

When asked by RacingNews365 if he was surprised Horner approached the team, Komatsu replied: "I've got nothing more to say on that."

And when put to him that Horner would not be chasing his job if he were seeking a higher role, he added: "You guys write whatever you want. I'm not fuelling that story."

Horner departed Red Bull as one of the most successful team principals in F1 history, making him an attractive candidate for a number of teams.

While Cadillac has also been mentioned as a possible destination for Horner, Aston Martin refused to shut down speculation that it could sign him going forward.

Horner is serving a period of gardening leave as part of his exit deal from Red Bull, believed to be set at nine months, which means he is free to join another F1 project in early 2026.