Horner finds a shared vision in F1: a partnership that could work
Is Christian Horner targeting Alpine in Formula 1? Possibly. After stepping down from Red Bull last July following more than twenty years in management, the British manager has not closed the chapter on his F1 career. After months of keeping a low profile, helped by a reported exit package between 60 and 80 million euros, Christian Horner has started evaluating options for a potential return to the paddock. Such a comeback could take shape as early as 2026, with a shared vision guiding the way.
Horner: the Otro Capital stake in focus
In the months following his departure from Milton Keynes, Christian Horner reportedly explored multiple avenues. Contacts, some more serious than others, were said to have taken place with Ferrari, Haas, Aston Martin, and even the Cadillac F1 project. However, as far as we understand, no negotiation progressed to a truly advanced stage. These were exploratory discussions, mainly aimed at testing the waters and possibly to unsettle competitors, without any concrete outcomes.
In recent weeks, the name that has gained the most traction is Alpine. According to rumors, Christian Horner is considering acquiring a stake of approximately 24% in the Anglo-French team. These shares currently belong to the American investment fund Otro Capital, which is evaluating a potential sale. The consortium includes high-profile investors such as boxer Anthony Joshua, golfer Rory McIlroy, and actor Ryan Reynolds.
Horner is said to have expressed direct interest in these shares, though he has not made any official statements. Reports suggest that he has not denied contacts with the Alpine team but has chosen to maintain maximum discretion, especially considering the team’s struggles on track last season, finishing tenth in the Constructors’ Championship with just 22 points, all scored by Pierre Gasly.
A personal dimension: Flavio Briatore and Horner
A potential move to Alpine would also carry a strong personal element. Horner is closely connected to Flavio Briatore, currently the team principal and the key figure within the structure. The two share a highly pragmatic vision of Formula 1, focused exclusively on achieving results, even if it requires making drastic or unpopular decisions.
The pragmatic vision of Horner and Briatore
A recent example of Flavio Briatore’s pragmatic approach is the decision to close the historic Viry-Châtillon power unit factory after acknowledging the significant delays affecting the 2026 engine program. This decision effectively ended the Renault power unit project—a painful but necessary realization. Turning to Mercedes engines was debated but ultimately aligned with a clear philosophy: sacrifice tradition to maximize sporting success.
Christian Horner, from the perspective of determination, is no less pragmatic. Despite all the statements released by Helmut Marko following his recent Red Bull exit, it appears that Christian Horner always pursued his path to success, not only on track but also within the Austrian organization. Over the years, this focus has led to the departure of some valuable team members who clashed with his goal-oriented approach.
From a human perspective, certain individuals did not align with Christian Horner’s results-driven vision, which prioritizes achieving objectives at all costs. Logistically, Alpine presents an ideal solution. The Enstone base is close to his home in Oxfordshire, a detail that is far from trivial. The role he would take remains to be clarified, particularly since Briatore holds operational leadership following the resignation of Oliver Oakes.
Horner and Briatore together at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix press conference
Meanwhile, Alpine welcomed the return of Steve Nielsen as CEO, further reshaping the organizational structure. Should Christian Horner decide to return, it is unlikely that he would accept a marginal role. Known for seeking broad decision-making powers, Horner could use a potential equity stake to secure the control necessary to implement his vision and leave a lasting mark on the team.
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