Aston Martin has also approached Andreas Seidl, Mattia Binotto, and Martin Whitmarsh

Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has emerged as a frontrunner to replace Aston Martin’s chief executive and team principal, Andy Cowell.

The 51-year-old, who departed Red Bull in July following a £53 million settlement, has been seeking a route back into Formula 1 since his dismissal.

It comes as Cowell faces imminent removal from his position following internal conflicts with the team’s managing technical partner, Adrian Newey, according to multiple reports.

The British executive, who assumed the dual role just over twelve months ago, appears set to depart the Silverstone-based operation, though he might continue in a different capacity within the broader organisation.

Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has emerged as a frontrunner to replace Aston Martin’s chief executive and team principal | PA

Tensions between Cowell and Newey have reportedly escalated in recent months, prompting team owner Lawrence Stroll to consider taking action.

Whilst no definitive decision has been announced, sources indicate Cowell’s departure from his leadership positions appears inevitable.

An Aston Martin Aramco spokesperson declined to address the speculation, stating: “The team will not be engaging in rumour or speculation. The focus is on maximising performance in the remaining races and preparing for 2026.”

Horner’s candidacy presents complications given his fractured relationship with Newey, which contributed to the design legend’s Red Bull exit.

Newey reportedly left the Milton Keynes outfit partly due to tensions with Horner following allegations of inappropriate behaviour against the team principal, though two internal investigations cleared him.

Sources suggest the pair have since reconciled, with both attending an Oasis concert together during the summer.

Nevertheless, uncertainty remains about whether their professional relationship could be successfully restored at Aston Martin.

Lawrence Stroll has explored multiple alternatives for the leadership position, approaching former McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl, current Audi F1 project head Mattia Binotto, and Martin Whitmarsh, who previously served as Aston Martin’s CEO.

Christian Horner departed Red Bull in July | PA

Whitmarsh, who was succeeded by Cowell last year, declined an offer to return to his former position.

He told BBC Sport: “I decided to leave Aston Martin in 2023 and, whilst Lawrence has been very generous, I no longer wanted a role in the team.”

The potential departure would mark Cowell as the fourth senior executive to exit under Stroll’s ownership, following Otmar Szafnauer’s 2022 dismissal and Mike Krack’s demotion to chief trackside officer earlier this year.

The team has also experienced broader instability, with seven senior design engineers departing earlier this month.

Christian Horner has been seeking a route back into Formula 1 since his dismissal| PA

The fundamental dispute centres on authority within the team structure, with both executives unwilling to cede ultimate control over Formula 1 operations.

Newey’s position carries considerably more influence despite Cowell nominally overseeing operations as CEO.

The 66-year-old designer, who secured 12 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ titles across Williams, McLaren and Red Bull, commands the highest salary at Aston Martin whilst holding a minority shareholding.

His appointment in April specifically tasked him with spearheading the development of the 2026 challenger under new technical regulations.