Formula 1 outsider confirms talks with ex-Red Bull boss

Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner is in talks to buy a stake in the Alpin team, which could pave the way for his return to Formula 1.

Horner has been away from F1 since July last year when he was unexpectedly sacked from Red Bull after 20 years with the team, where he held manager and CEO positions. Since then his name has been repeatedly linked to various projects in the championship, but Alpin is seen as the most likely option, especially alongside former Formula One president Bernie Ecclestone.

While the majority of the Alpine team is owned by Renault, 24% is owned by a group of private investors led by investment company Otro Capital. Partners on the project include actors Ryan Reynolds and Michael B. Jordan, as well as NFL stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.

It is known that if Horner returns to Formula 1, he is interested not only in a managerial position but also in having a share in the team. The opportunity to purchase Otro Capital’s shares in Alpin may be a chance for him to realize this intention.

Alpin team manager Flavio Briatore, who maintains friendly relations with Horner, confirmed the authenticity of the talks between Christian and Otro Capital. During the presentation of the A526 car in Barcelona, ​​Briatore noted that many potential buyers are currently showing interest in Otro stock.

If Otro decides to sell its shares, Reno, which controls the remaining shares, will have the final say on signing a new investor, Briatore said. He also emphasized that Horner was not involved in these negotiations, as he was conducting a dialogue directly with Otro Capital, not with the team’s management.