Horner and Wolff reignite rivalry in battle for Alpine stake

The battle for a 24% stake in Alpine F1 has turned into a fresh duel between old adversaries Christian Horner and Toto Wolff. With the shareholding valued at around $750 million, both men are pursuing control in a deal that could reshape the team's future and trigger wider regulatory scrutiny.

Why it matters:

This isn't just a financial transaction — it's a power play. Horner, after leaving Red Bull last year, wants a decision-making role. Wolff, backed by Mercedes, sees an opportunity to deepen ties with Renault. Their rivalry now extends beyond the track into the boardroom, with implications for team independence and F1's competitive balance.

The Details:

• Horner's bid is said to be more aligned with the stake's true value. He aims for an active role, including influence over driver and team principal choices — something he lacked at Red Bull despite 20 years as team principal.
• Wolff's offer, in tandem with Mercedes, is described by sources as “very low,” with no further attempts to raise it. However, Mercedes' supply of power units to Alpine this season gives Wolff leverage, and Renault's board is reportedly intrigued by future synergies.
• Alpine's performance jump — from last in 2025 to fifth early this season — increases the team's appeal. Otro Capital and its investors (including Ryan Reynolds, Patrick Mahomes) are in no rush to sell, potentially waiting until after the summer break to see if the team's form holds, which could raise the price.
• Opposition: McLaren CEO Zak Brown has criticized multi-team ownership, calling it a threat to sporting fairness. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also expressed personal doubts, though he noted the matter is under investigation.
• Unknown bidders: Horner and Wolff are the most visible, but other parties remain in the background, adding uncertainty.

What's next:

A deal may not be finalized until late August at the earliest. If Alpine continues to perform well, the price could rise, testing both Horner and Wolff's commitment. The FIA's investigation into multi-team ownership could also shape the outcome. For now, the fight for Alpine’s future is a high-stakes subplot in the 2026 season, with both protagonists refusing to back down.