Christian Horner, who has made it clear that his story is not done yet, is making moves to return to Formula One. Reports say he’s setting his sights on a team that desperately needs his winning touch — Alpine.
Christian Horner Could Return to Formula One With Bold Alpine Plan
The former Red Bull Racing boss, who left the team last fall after two decades of dominance, is now in serious talks about buying into Alpine.
Sources reveal that Horner has been approached by MSP Sports Capital, a major investment firm with deep motorsport roots, about backing a potential deal for the struggling French F1 unit.
Negotiations focus on Otro Capital’s 24% share of Alpine, but Horner reportedly wants more than a small stake.
Insiders believe he’s aiming for control, even as Renault still owns 76%. Alpine’s value could land between $2 billion and $2.5 billion, a number that would’ve seemed unthinkable just a few years ago.
MSP Sports Capital knows the F1 game well. The firm previously invested in McLaren Racing, buying a 15% stake in 2020 when the team was valued at just $700 million. Last fall, MSP cashed out handsomely when McLaren’s valuation hit roughly $4.4 billion: a sixfold increase in just five years.
If Horner does seal a deal, he’ll have his work cut out for him. Alpine finished dead last in the 2025 World Championship, collecting a miserable 22 points across 24 races. Compare that to champion McLaren’s 833 points, and the gap becomes painfully clear.
It would be a long road back to the front of the grid, but if anyone knows how to build a winning team, it’s Horner. During his 20-year tenure at Red Bull Racing, he oversaw six constructors’ championships and eight drivers’ titles.
Horner isn’t going it alone. He’s been talking with a wide range of potential backers, including high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutional investors.
The exact lineup of his financial partners hasn’t been revealed, and it’s still uncertain whether MSP will ultimately join the consortium.
Alpine confirmed last month that Horner and his investor group were among several parties interested in the Otro Capital stake.
The team emphasized that any discussions were happening with the existing shareholders, Otro Capital and Renault Group, not directly with team leadership.
Horner’s Alpine bid is just the latest sign of F1’s booming investment appeal. The sport has become a magnet for big money, with team values soaring across the board.
Last July, Aston Martin announced plans to sell its stake in its F1 team at a valuation of $3 billion, though that deal hasn’t been finalized yet.
Horner, who is married to former Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell, hasn’t commented publicly on his interest in the Alps.
