Lewis Hamilton has said rumours linking Christian Horner with a future move to Ferrari are “Not helpful” to the team’s quest for more performance. The Brit is trying to help his Italian squad to return to contention for race wins amid a difficult maiden season for the seven-time World champion since making the move from Mercedes.

He has given his public backing to Frederic Vasseur before, as did Ferrari only a few months ago when they handed the Frenchman a new multi-year contract. But this week there has been media speculation that Ferrari could look to replace him as team principal with Horner, who is now a free agent for 2026 since negotiating the terms of his Red Bull exit.