Christian Horner is planning a return to Formula 1 after being fired by Red Bull in 2025, but his path may now face a roadblock. Horner is on gardening leave until April 2026 and has been exploring ways to return, including buying a 24% stake in Alpine from Otro Capital.
Horner led Red Bull for 20 years, winning eight drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships. Since leaving, he has met with investors in the US and Middle East to fund a potential F1 comeback.
Otro Capital, which bought its Alpine stake for £173 million in 2023, is reportedly seeking up to £600 million by selling it. Horner has identified Alpine as one of his “preferred options” for returning to F1.
However, reports indicate that Renault has the right to veto any sale to Horner. The French manufacturer included a right to match any offer when it sold the stake to Otro Capital, meaning Horner cannot automatically buy in.
Renault and Alpine bosses are also concerned about tensions with Mercedes, as Alpine will start using Mercedes engines from 2026 to 2030. Horner’s bitter rivalry with Mercedes CEO Toto Wolff during the Red Bull era could complicate the deal.
The decision on Horner’s investment could be delayed until September 2026, giving Alpine time to consider potential risks. Horner may need to mend bridges with Wolff to avoid disrupting Alpine’s new engine partnership.
Horner has not ruled out creating his own team, but buying into an existing F1 team like Alpine remains his most realistic path back to the sport.
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