The **Formula 1** landscape could be on the brink of a seismic shift! Rumors have intensified into concrete whispers, confirmed by **Alpine**'s own power broker, **Flavio Briatore**: **Christian Horner** is eyeing a dramatic return to the paddock, not just as a team principal, but as a significant part-owner of the **Alpine F1 team**.
Key Points:
- **Christian Horner** is actively pursuing the purchase of **Otro Capital**'s **24% stake** in the **Alpine F1 team**.
- **Flavio Briatore** has publicly acknowledged these crucial discussions.
- **Horner**'s previous talks with other teams faltered due to his insistence on an ownership share, highlighting his commitment.
- **Otro Capital**'s stake, acquired for **€200 million** in 2023, includes high-profile investors like **Ryan Reynolds**.
Horner's Bold Return: Targeting Alpine Ownership
Since his departure from **Red Bull F1** last July, speculation has swirled around **Christian Horner**'s next move. While many expected him to seek another top management role, it now appears his ambitions stretch far beyond the team principal's desk. **Horner** is reportedly seeking a significant ownership stake in any new **Formula 1** venture.
This demand for equity previously derailed discussions with teams like **Aston Martin** and **Haas**. However, the **Alpine F1 team** now presents a compelling opportunity, with **Horner** reportedly zeroing in on a specific slice of the pie.
The €200 Million Question: Otro Capital's Stake
The target for **Horner**'s acquisition is the **24% stake** in **Alpine F1** currently held by **Otro Capital**. This investment group, boasting celebrity backing from names like **Ryan Reynolds** and **Michael B. Jordan**, injected a staggering **€200 million** into the team in 2023. This substantial investment underscored the growing appeal and value of **Formula 1** teams.
**Otro Capital**'s potential divestment opens the door for a new major player. For **Horner**, securing this stake would not only mark his return to the **F1** paddock but establish him as a key decision-maker with a vested interest in the team's long-term success.
Briatore Confirms the High-Stakes Talks
Adding undeniable credibility to the rumors, **Alpine**'s executive advisor, **Flavio Briatore**, confirmed the ongoing interest. Speaking during a media briefing, **Briatore** acknowledged that **Otro Capital** is looking to sell their **24% stake** and that **Horner** is among the interested parties.
It's important to note **Briatore**'s clarification: **Horner**'s negotiations are directly with **Otro Capital**, not with the majority owner, **Renault**. This distinction highlights the multi-layered process involved in such a high-profile transaction. Once **Otro Capital** finds a buyer, **Renault** would still need to approve the acquisition.
What This Means for Alpine's Future
If **Christian Horner** successfully acquires the **Otro Capital** stake, it could signal a dramatic shift for **Alpine**. His proven track record of building winning teams at **Red Bull** would bring invaluable experience and a new strategic direction. For **Alpine**, a team seeking to climb higher in the Constructors' Championship, such a move could be the catalyst for a much-needed revitalization. The **F1** world watches with bated breath to see if this power play will reshape the grid.
