Legal Loophole Delays Christian Horner’s Alleged Alpine F1 Takeover

Bassyonni

ago 16 hours

Legal Loophole Delays Christian Horner’s Alleged Alpine F1 Takeover

Christian Horner’s potential return to Formula 1 with the Alpine team faces significant delays due to legal restrictions. Having been removed as CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull in July 2022, Horner is exploring options within the paddock. However, the upcoming September deadline may dictate his next steps.

Background of Christian Horner

Since the inception of the Red Bull team in 2005, Horner led the team to impressive success. Under his leadership, Red Bull secured six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ Championships. Despite the accolades, Horner’s exit came after a disappointing performance from the team in 2024 and internal conflicts within the company.

The Alpine F1 Project

Horner has set his sights on a minority takeover of the Alpine team, which is backed by Renault. Recent reports indicate that Otro, holding a 24% stake, may consider selling its share for approximately $600 million. Nonetheless, legal constraints complicate this process.

Legal Challenges and Ownership Structure

Renault is the primary stakeholder in the Alpine project.
Otro can only sell its stake with prior approval from Renault.
A three-year waiting period must also be observed, concluding this September.

Due to these stipulations, Horner might have to wait until late 2026 to progress with his plans for Alpine. This timeline poses a significant barrier to his ambitions of returning to the pit wall.

Reactions from Alpine Management

Amid swirling rumors of Horner’s potential involvement with Alpine, the team’s management has firmly rejected these speculations. Acting Team Principal Flavio Briatore stated, “Christian is not in Formula One anymore. I hope he comes back soon, but for the moment, he’s not in the picture of Alpine.”

As preparations continue for the future of Alpine, how this situation unfolds remains uncertain. Horner’s aspirations, combined with the complex legal landscape, could shape the dynamics of the Formula 1 landscape in the coming years.