The former Red Bull Team Principal could make a return to F1 as an owner in Alpine after just six months from his controversial exit.
Christian Horner, former Team Principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing, is reportedly set for a return to Formula One as part of an investment group seeking a share in Alpine F1.
Horner and the investment group are aiming to acquire Otro Capital’s 24% stake in Alpine following the team’s announcement the private investment firm was interested in selling its share.
Within its statement, revealed by Planet F1, Alpine also confirmed Horner was one of the suitors interested in acquiring the Otro Capital stake.
“It is no secret that Otro Capital has held preliminary talks to sell its stake in the team, as has previously been reported in October last year,” said the statement.
“The team is regularly approached and contacted from potential investors, particularly given Otro Capital declared exploratory talks have taken place. One of those parties to express an interest is a group of investors, which also includes Christian Horner.”
Otro Capital acquired its share in Alpine for £171m in June 2023 while Renault remained the majority shareholder with a 76% stake. Otro’s investment was backed by Red Bird Capital, alongside several sporting figures, such as Rory McIlroy, Anthony Joshua, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Patrick Mahomes.
Renault holds the right to offer the first bid if Otro wanted to divest its shares in the F1 team.
Horner’s F1 return
Since his departure from Red Bull Racing in July 2025 due to alleged misconduct, Planet F1 reported he was interested in a return to the sport in an ownership role as it offered more job security.
Horner officially left Red Bull in September 2025 with a £52m severance package after 20-years at the team. He was instrumental in Red Bull’s success during that time, helping the team win eight World Drivers Championships, six Constructors’ Championships, and 124 Grand Prix wins, the second-most for a team principal in F1 history.
However, allegations of sexual harassment marred his term and resulted in two investigations. Horner was later cleared of any wrongdoing and remained in his position, although the public scrutiny questioned the stability of the team.
While Max Verstappen won the 2024 Drivers Championship, Red Bull finished third in the Constructors’ Championship and third again in 2025 after his departure midway through the season.
Horner was replaced by Laurent Mekies from Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls in July 2025.
