Toto Wolff appears ready to prevent Christian Horner from returning to F1, reportedly willing to spend several million to do so. Since leaving Red Bull, Horner has been exploring ways to make a comeback in Formula 1. One of the most promising paths seems to be acquiring a stake in Alpine, though no concrete negotiations have yet taken place. Specifically, the former Milton Keynes team principal is said to be interested in the 24% stake held by Otro Capital, a group involving various celebrities, including footballers and other athletes.
Wolff aims to put a spoke in Horner’s wheel
Into this scenario steps Toto Wolff. According to The Telegraph, the Mercedes boss wants to prevent Christian Horner’s return to F1. This could soon become yet another chapter in the ongoing political battle between the two. Wolff has reportedly inquired about the potential acquisition of that 24% stake, which, according to the British tabloid, is valued at approximately £448 million.
Mercedes’ team principal could leverage the recent agreement with Alpine regarding the supply of Mercedes engines until 2030. However, to proceed with the purchase of the shares, Wolff would need approval from his own team, which has already commented on the matter. “Mercedes is a strategic partner of Alpine, and we are aware of the latest developments. It should be noted that these discussions do not involve the team but the shareholders involved. For now, we remain focused on our on-track activities and the season that has just begun,” said a spokesperson.
It will be interesting to see how this situation develops, which could soon spark debate. In the background, the issue of the relationship between two teams connected through the same ownership could once again come into focus.
It will be fascinating to observe how this situation evolves, as it could quickly become the biggest talking point in the 2026 paddock. Lurking in the background is the recurring and controversial theme of multi-team ownership and the intricate relationships between different squads linked by the same proprietary interests. If Wolff succeeds, it would not only be a financial statement but a definitive blow in the ongoing battle for influence within the pinnacle of motorsport.
The 2026 season is therefore seeing the rivalry between Toto Wolff and Christian Horner move from the pit wall to the boardroom, with the future ownership of Alpine potentially serving as the ultimate battlefield for control and legacy in Formula 1.
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