Alpine Ownership in Flux

The future ownership of the Alpine Formula 1 team is becoming increasingly complex, with both Christian Horner and Toto Wolff entering the fray to acquire a significant stake. Otro Capital, which holds a 24 percent share in the team, is looking to sell its entire holding, potentially reaping a substantial profit given the rising valuations within Formula 1.

Horner’s Return and Mercedes’ Interest

Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, currently seeking a return to Formula 1, has assembled a consortium to pursue the acquisition of the Otro Capital stake. However, his path has been complicated by a bid from Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, adding a new dimension to the negotiations.

Alpine’s overall value is estimated to be around $3 billion, reflecting the current boom in F1 team valuations.

Clarification from Briatore

Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore has confirmed the interest from Mercedes, but clarified that the negotiations are directly with Mercedes, not with Toto Wolff personally.

“Every day is a new situation,” Briatore said on Friday. “But what I want to say, I know it’s the negotiation from Mercedes — not with Toto, with Mercedes — and we’ll see.”

Briatore emphasized that the discussions center around the shares owned by Otro Capital, a U.S.-based investment firm, and not the Alpine team itself.

Stakeholder Dynamics

Briatore indicated that there are “three or four potential buyers” currently in consideration. He also stated he has no personal interest in purchasing the shares, stating, “No, no, no, no. Just looking. I’m just looking what’s going on and just watching what’s going on.”

Alpine currently utilizes Mercedes power units, a deal facilitated in part by Briatore, and will continue to do so through 2030.

Briatore drew a parallel to Red Bull’s ownership structure, suggesting that a majority stakeholder (75%) typically holds decision-making power, with the remaining 25% having a more passive role.

Timeline for a Decision

Sources indicate a fixed date midway through 2026 exists by which Alpine must decide on a buyer for the Otro Capital stake. If a deal isn’t reached by this deadline, Otro Capital will have the freedom to select the buyer independently.

FAQ

Who is Otro Capital?

Otro Capital is an American investment firm that currently owns a 24% stake in the Alpine F1 team.

What is Alpine’s estimated value?

Alpine is estimated to be worth around $3 billion.

Who are the potential buyers for the stake?

Christian Horner and Toto Wolff (through Mercedes) are known to be interested parties.