Horner suggests F1 comeback path for Ricciardo, Perez

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has detailed how Sergio Perez and Daniel Ricciardo could return to the grid in the near future.

Ricciardo exited the field after the Singapore Grand Prix earlier this year to be replaced by Liam Lawson at RB.

Perez then found himself on the sidelines at the conclusion of the 2024 campaign, also in favour of Lawson, who will race for Red Bull next year alongside Max Verstappen.

In 2026 the F1 grid is set to expand with General Motors entering as an 11th squad under the Cadillac branch.

Speaking to Talksport, Horner stated it is not getting caught up in the prospect of having a new rival to contend with.

“It doesn’t change anything, really for us,” Horner stated. 

“We just focus on ourselves. It means that some of the paddocks will be a little busier with an 11th team in 2026. For us, it’s business as normal.

“They’ve got their own mountain to climb. We’re focused on making sure that we’re staying at the top of ours.”

When asked if it posed an opportunity for Ricciardo to return, Horner suggested it could also be a route back for Perez.

“I wouldn’t be surprised, ” Horner said.

“I wouldn’t at all be surprised if they went for the experience of someone like Sergio if he wants to decide to continue his career in F1.”