Is BYD looking to enter Formula 1 with the help of Christian Horner? The latest developments in the paddock certainly suggest that the scenario is becoming increasingly credible.
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Soon after the statements of Stella Li, vice-president of BYD, confirming the Chinese manufacturer’s interest in a Formula 1 project, several meetings reportedly took place between Li and Christian Horner.
According to various sources, the former head of Red Bull Racing has had multiple exchanges with the leaders of the Chinese giant to assess the possibilities of a future involvement in F1.
BYD electric leader
BYD’s interest would be particularly strategic. Now considered one of the largest global car manufacturers after surpassing Tesla in the electric vehicle market, the Chinese group clearly wants to strengthen its international visibility through Formula 1.
Several speculations have also emerged regarding a possible participation of BYD in the battle for the 24% stake in the Alpine team currently held by the Otro Capital fund. Discussions held with the Renault Group have attracted various candidates, including Christian Horner himself, but also Mercedes-Benz, already Alpine’s engine supplier.
Flavio Briatore has publicly acknowledged the existence of interest from Horner and Mercedes, even though Alpine currently refuses to officially comment on these speculations, merely indicating that discussions are taking place between current shareholders and interested parties.
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Towards a twelfth team?
But according to several reports from China, BYD would mainly favor the idea of creating its own team rather than buying a minority stake in an existing structure. The Chinese manufacturer would thus consider taking advantage of the future possibility of welcoming a twelfth team on the grid.
Last weekend, Horner went to Cannes to meet Stella Li. The two leaders reportedly exchanged several times over two days, with Li showing particular enthusiasm about entering Formula 1. BYD also published images of its Cannes Night event on social media, where Horner clearly appears among the manufacturer’s guests and alongside Madame Li (photo above).
The Formula E alternative
At the same time, Horner also attended the Formula E event in Monaco as a guest of Liberty Global, majority shareholder of the electric series, a competition that should logically interest the Chinese manufacturer.
Although no official project has yet been announced, BYD’s growing interest confirms a fundamental trend: major global manufacturers now consider Formula 1 as a major strategic platform for their image, technology, and international development.
And in this equation, Christian Horner could well become one of the key men of the paddock’s next big project.
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