Christian Horner returned to the Formula 1 paddock area for the first time on Sunday, a year after being dismissed as Red Bull team principal, while attending the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Horner told The Times in his first interview since his departure: 'I bear no grudge against anyone, and the mandatory gardening leave that prevented me from working with any other team has ended. I am now free to choose my destination. I have no interest in being just a number in a machine. I have proven enough what I can do. If I return, it will only be in a role that gives me the authority to make a change, make a difference, and win. I know I will be very frustrated quickly if I do any other job. If I can't do this to win, why bother?' The British official, who was replaced by Frenchman Laurent Mekies, received an invitation to return to the British Grand Prix from Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, and Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1. Horner led Red Bull for 20 years, during which the team won eight drivers' world championships (four with Sebastian Vettel and four with Max Verstappen) and six constructors' titles. The 52-year-old official made headlines in 2024 after being accused of inappropriate behavior by an employee, but was later cleared of the charge following an investigation.