Christian Horner eyes Formula One return with Alpine
Christian Horner’s prospects of returning to Formula One with Alpine appear to be strengthening, according to reports suggesting the former Red Bull supremo has identified Otro Capital’s 24 per cent shareholding as his route back into the sport, reports BritPanorama.
Horner is pursuing the American investment firm’s minority position in the Enstone-based outfit. Understanding his requirements, it is clear that he seeks both an ownership stake and complete operational authority over any team he leads.
Alpine’s location is particularly convenient for the 52-year-old, who resides near the team’s headquarters, and the ownership structure could potentially accommodate both of his stated conditions.
Otro Capital is part of the RedBird-Maximum Effort consortium that acquired a stake in Alpine in 2023, boasting an array of notable figures such as golfer Rory McIlroy and actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The firm is reportedly seeking a buyer for its holding, with Alpine also welcoming such a departure.
Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive advisor, offered pointed insights during the recent United States Grand Prix, stating, “We don’t need a sleeping partner.” The French manufacturer has struggled throughout the 2025 season, finishing last in the constructors’ standings and highlighting the urgent need for fresh leadership.
Horner’s credentials for a turnaround are notable; during his tenure at Red Bull, he led the team to six constructors’ titles and eight drivers’ championships, alongside 124 grand prix victories — second only to one other team principal in Formula One history. Financing does not seem to be an issue, with Horner reportedly having secured backing from numerous investors eager to gain entry into the sport.
His longstanding friendship with Briatore may aid any negotiations, but uncertainty remains whether they will collaborate or if Horner would replace the 75-year-old Italian, who has faced health challenges in recent years. Additionally, Alpine’s agreement with Mercedes to supply power units and gearboxes until the end of 2030 could complicate matters, especially as the German manufacturer is expected to offer the most competitive engine when new regulations are implemented next season.
Complicating the situation further, Mercedes is part-owned by Toto Wolff, Horner’s rival, who might object to supplying a team led by Horner, though whether he could effectively block such an arrangement remains to be seen. Horner’s departure from Red Bull earlier this year was settled in a manner that reportedly allows him to return to the Formula One paddock by spring 2026.
As the landscape of Formula One shifts yet again, the return of such a seasoned figure as Horner could signal an intriguing chapter for Alpine, one that might finally steer the beleaguered team back into contention. It’s a reminder of how the intricacies of sport and business often collide in the racing world.
