Lewis Hamilton issues stern response to sensational Christian Horner rumour

Lewis Hamilton has labelled the speculation surrounding Christian Horner being linked with a role at Ferrari as “distracting” for the team. 

Horner exited the Red Bull team in the days that followed the British Grand Prix, ending his 20-year stint in charge of the Milton Keynes-based squad.

The Briton is currently serving a period of gardening leave before he is allowed to make a return to the F1 grid, which could be as early as spring next year.

Horner has been linked with roles at various teams. Aston Martin and Haas confirmed the 51-year-old had reached out for preliminary talks before asserting discussions did not progress further.

Ferrari has also been linked as a potential destination for Horner, despite current team principal Fred Vasseur penning an extension earlier this year.

Hamilton hit back at the rumours placing Horner at the Italian squad, insisting it is only serving as a distraction.

“I don't know where the rumours have come from so I can't really shed much light on it,” Hamilton told media including RacingNews365.

“But it's a little bit distracting for us as a team. The team has made it clear where they stand on re-signing Fred.

“Fred and I, and the whole team, are working very hard on the future of the team.

“These things, naturally, aren't helpful. I know everyone back at the factory is working incredibly hard and is focused.

“These rumours can sometimes be distracting.”

Hamilton has not enjoyed a successful first season at Ferrari and is still awaiting his first trip to the podium with the team.

The seven-time champion asserted his primary focus is on the 2026 car, which Ferrari hope will see it take a leap up the pecking order as fresh technical regulations come into play.

“For me, it's trying to keep the focus on the goal that's in front of us and building on next year's car,” Hamilton added.

“Really, continue to build a foundation on this year so that next year we can have better execution and better overall performance.

“[We're having] lots of meetings, trying to make sure we're sailing in the right direction.”