Horner declares interest in buying Alpine stake

Alpine has revealed that former Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner, is among the parties that have signalled interest in purchasing a minority stake in the team. 

This is the first public update about Horner since getting axed by the team he was with for 20 years.

The news was first mentioned by Alpine team principal, Flavio Briatore. According to Briatore, Otro, one of the two shareholders in the team, was looking to sell its stake (24%), and some parties have declared their interest. 

He also said that while he was friends with Horner, that had nothing to do with the sale, as Horner or anyone else would have to approach the team directly.

Briatore’s point was confirmed by Alpine in a statement. The team mentioned that Otro had purchased a 24% stake in the team, valued at 200 million Euros, back in 2023. As at that time, the outfit had a total estimated valuation of 706 million Euros. 

Part of the statement from Alpine reads: “With the continued rapid growth of Formula 1, the valuation of the teams has been increasing and, not surprisingly, has led to multiple interested parties looking to enter the sport.

“The team is regularly approached and contacted from potential investors, particularly given Otro Capital declared exploratory talks have taken place.

“Any approaches or discussions are with existing shareholders, Otro Capital (24%) and Renault Group (76%), not directly with Flavio Briatore or the team.”

Alpine finished 10th in the standings last season, with a total of 22 points gained, which is less than one point per race.

The poor finish was a result of so many things, including a lack of proper support for Pierre Gasly, who earned the team its only points for the season. 

Horner’s interest in the team could be a sign that he sees potential for an upward trajectory. While he would have no administrative role, his affiliation with the team could earn them some confidence that would prove helpful in the coming seasons.

For now, nothing has been sealed or even started. The process of buying Otro’s stake would involve a somewhat lengthy process that is subject to Renault’s approval.