Christian Horner in Talks to Become Alpine Co-Owner Amid Share Sale
Christian Horner is reportedly exploring a return to F1 by purchasing a stake in the Alpine team. The potential deal hinges on American firm Otro Capital selling its 24% share, which requires approval from majority stakeholder Renault.
Christian Horner is reportedly eyeing a return to Formula 1 by acquiring a stake in the Alpine F1 team. This possibility has emerged as American investment firm Otro Capital, which owns a 24% minority share, is actively seeking a buyer. However, any potential deal, including one involving Horner and his financial backers, faces a significant hurdle in the form of approval from majority shareholder Renault.
Why it matters:
A move of this magnitude would send shockwaves through the F1 paddock. Bringing a proven winner like Horner into the fold could provide Alpine with the leadership and commercial acumen it has desperately lacked after years of inconsistent performance. For Horner, it's a potential path back to the grid's frontline after his tenure at Red Bull, potentially setting up a new powerhouse rivalry.
The details:
- The Seller: Otro Capital, an American investment firm, is actively shopping its 24% minority stake in the Alpine F1 Team.
- The Buyer: Christian Horner, backed by a consortium of financiers, has identified Alpine as his preferred route back into the sport over the more difficult and uncertain option of starting a new team from scratch.
- The Valuation: Determining a price for the shares is complex, especially with rivals like Aston Martin recently valued at over $3 billion.
- The Hurdle: Any sale requires the blessing of Renault, which holds the majority stake. The French manufacturer has the power to veto any potential new shareholder, and it remains to be seen if they would welcome a figure as prominent as Horner.
What's next:
The coming months will be crucial for Alpine's ownership structure. With Otro Capital actively seeking a buyer, the situation is fluid and could develop rapidly. The key question is not just who is willing to buy the stake, but whether Renault will approve a new, high-profile partner like Horner. If a deal is reached, it could signal a dramatic new era for the Enstone-based team as it aims for a strong 2026 season.