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Former Red Bull CEO and team boss Christian Horner is reportedly in talks to buy a stake in Alpine, a move that would see him return to F1 in some capacity.
Former Red Bull CEO and team boss Christian Horner is reportedly in talks to buy a stake in Alpine, potentially marking his return to Formula 1 in some capacity when his gardening leave ends in April 2026. Horner’s departure from Red Bull in July concluded a 20-year tenure marred by power struggles within the team’s parent company. Despite exploring opportunities with various teams, Horner is seeking a position that offers more operational control and less hierarchy, a criterion not fulfilled in previous discussions. While initially linked to Aston Martin’s CEO role, which was ultimately filled by Adrian Newey, recent reports suggest Horner’s interest in acquiring a dominant position within the struggling Alpine outfit. Alpine’s dismal performance in 2025, culminating in a last-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship, has fueled speculation about potential ownership changes, with Horner’s rumored bid adding momentum to the ongoing rumors. The possibility of Horner joining forces with Alpine, particularly given his friendship with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore, remains uncertain yet not entirely dismissed by Managing Director Steve Nielsen, underscoring the intrigue surrounding the potential acquisition in the ever-evolving realm of Formula 1.
