Christian Horner, the former team principal of Red Bull Racing, is currently a free agent and is contemplating a return to Formula 1. As he navigates his next career move, two teams have emerged as potential destinations: Ferrari and Alpine.

Ferrari, which finished second in the Constructors’ Championship in 2024 under Fred Vasseur, has faced challenges in recent seasons. The team’s performance declined in 2025 due to strategic decision-making issues and the uncompetitiveness of the SF-25. Juan Pablo Montoya, a former F1 driver, believes that while Horner could help Ferrari, it would require patience and a long-term commitment. “Honestly, yes. But Ferrari would have to understand it would be sh*t for two years and that this is a four year programme at least and they would have to be patient,” Montoya stated.

On the other hand, Alpine is considered the most likely destination for Horner in 2026. The team finished last in the Constructors’ Championship in 2025, indicating a need for significant improvement. Horner is reportedly negotiating to acquire a minority stake in Alpine, which is currently valued at around US$588 million. Otro Capital holds a 24% stake in the team and is looking to sell, a move that has attracted interest from both Horner and Toto Wolff, who has also expressed a desire to acquire a minority stake.

The dynamics surrounding Alpine are complex, as Renault Group retains majority control of the team. Since shutting down its Renault works engine programme, Alpine has been supplied with engines and gearboxes from Mercedes. This relationship adds another layer to the negotiations, particularly with Wolff, who is no longer a person with significant control at Mercedes after selling part of his stake for approximately US$300 million.

Horner’s extensive experience as team principal of Red Bull for over 20 years positions him as a valuable asset in the F1 landscape. However, the uncertainties surrounding his potential impact at Ferrari or Alpine remain. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how successful Horner would be in turning around Ferrari’s fortunes if he were to join, and the outcome of negotiations between Horner, Wolff, and Alpine is still uncertain.

As the situation develops, observers are keenly watching how these negotiations unfold and what direction Horner will ultimately choose. The implications of his decision could significantly influence the competitive landscape of Formula 1 in the coming years.

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Christian Horner, the former team principal of Red Bull Racing, is currently a free agent and exploring options to return to Formula 1. With his extensive experience in the sport, Horner’s next move is highly anticipated, particularly as he is linked with two prominent teams: Ferrari and Alpine.

Ferrari, which finished second in the Constructors’ Championship in 2024 under Fred Vasseur, has faced challenges in recent seasons. The team’s performance declined in 2025, attributed to strategic decision-making issues and the uncompetitiveness of the SF-25. Juan Pablo Montoya, a former F1 driver, believes that Horner could significantly aid Ferrari’s revival but cautions that it would require a long-term commitment. “Honestly, yes. But Ferrari would have to understand it would be sh*t for two years and that this is a four year programme at least and they would have to be patient,” Montoya stated.

On the other hand, Alpine appears to be the more likely destination for Horner in 2026. The team finished last in the Constructors’ Championship in 2025, prompting a search for new leadership and direction. Reports indicate that Horner is negotiating to acquire a minority stake in Alpine, which could provide him with a platform to influence the team’s future. Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, is also reportedly interested in acquiring a minority stake in Alpine, adding another layer of competition for Horner.

Otro Capital currently holds a 24% stake in Alpine, valued at approximately $588 million. This stake was initially purchased for around 200 million euros, equivalent to $233 million. With Wolff having recently sold part of his stake in Mercedes for $300 million, he is no longer a person with significant control at the team, which may open up opportunities for him in Alpine.

Renault Group retains majority control of Alpine, and the team has been supplied with engines and gearboxes from Mercedes since shutting down its Renault works engine programme. This partnership has allowed Alpine to remain competitive, but the team is in need of a strategic overhaul to improve its standing in the championship.

Horner’s experience, having served as Red Bull’s team principal for over 20 years, positions him as a valuable asset for either team. However, observers remain cautious about the potential outcomes of his involvement with Ferrari, given the historical context of the team’s struggles. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how successful Horner would be in turning around Ferrari’s fortunes if he were to join.

As negotiations unfold, the motorsport community is closely watching the developments surrounding Horner’s potential move to either Ferrari or Alpine. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, and it will be interesting to see how the dynamics within both teams evolve in the coming months.

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The Alpine F1 Team is at the center of significant interest as Toto Wolff and Christian Horner lead bids to acquire stakes in the team. This development comes as Alpine is valued at approximately $588 million, with Otro Capital currently holding a 24% stake in the team.

Immediate Circumstances and Stake Valuation

Otro Capital’s stake, which they originally purchased for €200 million (approximately $233 million), is now estimated to be worth around $588 million. This substantial increase in value highlights the growing interest in the Alpine F1 Team, particularly as it has been supplied with engines and gearboxes from Mercedes since the discontinuation of its Renault engine program. Wolff, who has recently sold 15% of his stake in Mercedes for $300 million, is now looking to diversify his investments.

Wider Context of the Bidding Interest

Christian Horner’s interest in acquiring a stake in Alpine comes after over 20 years as the team principal of Red Bull. His desire to re-enter the ownership side of Formula 1 reflects a broader trend of former team principals seeking new opportunities within the sport. The regulations set by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) do not prohibit a single entity from owning stakes in multiple teams, which may facilitate these acquisitions.

Official Statements and Reactions

An Alpine spokesperson confirmed that the team is regularly approached by multiple parties interested in investment opportunities. This aligns with the current market dynamics in Formula 1, where teams are increasingly seen as valuable assets. Additionally, a spokesperson from Mercedes stated, “Mercedes is a key strategic partner of Alpine and we are being kept apprised of the latest developments,” indicating their ongoing interest in the situation.

Uncertainties Surrounding the Future

Despite the interest from Wolff and Horner, details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact outcome of the bidding process for the Alpine stake. The future performance and valuation of the Alpine F1 Team also remain uncertain as the team navigates these potential changes in ownership.

The Alpine F1 Team’s stake acquisition process is unfolding with significant interest from prominent figures in the sport. As bids are placed and negotiations continue, the future of the team and its valuation will be closely monitored by fans and investors alike.

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