Christian Horner explores ownership role as Formula One return nears

December 17, 2025 Oliver Obel

Christian Horner’s route back to Formula One may begin away from the pit wall.

According to reporting by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, the former Red Bull Racing team principal has entered discussions linked to Alpine ahead of the 2026 season. The talks are understood to focus on a possible ownership stake, rather than an immediate return to day-to-day team management.

If the move materialises, it would mark Horner’s first formal step back into the sport since his sudden departure from Red Bull in July, which brought an end to a partnership that spanned more than 20 years.

That separation reshaped the grid.

Background to Horner’s exit

Red Bull confirmed mid-season that Horner would leave the team, naming Laurent Mekies as his successor after Mekies stepped away from his role at Racing Bulls. During his tenure, Horner oversaw the most successful period in the Milton Keynes outfit’s history, delivering six constructors’ championships and eight drivers’ titles.

His exit came during a period of wider instability, including persistent questions around the long-term future of Max Verstappen, as reported by multiple outlets at the time.

Since then, Horner has remained a central figure in paddock speculation, with various teams linked to him in either executive or leadership roles.

Why Alpine is in the picture

Aston Martin initially appeared to be the most straightforward destination, particularly following Adrian Newey’s arrival at the team at the start of 2025. That path closed when Aston Martin confirmed Newey would assume the team principal role from 2026.

Alpine has since emerged as a more realistic option. The French team is entering a reset phase ahead of the next regulation cycle and is facing both competitive and commercial pressure to stabilise its long-term direction.

De Telegraaf reported that Horner’s gardening leave from Red Bull expires in the spring, opening the door for a return as early as next year. However, the discussions are said to centre on him becoming a co-shareholder rather than taking up a traditional management position straight away.

Ownership, not just leadership

Alpine’s ownership structure has been under review since 2023, when 24 percent of the team was sold to US-based investment group Otro Capital. The consortium’s backers are reported to include Anthony Joshua, Rory McIlroy and Ryan Reynolds.

Recent reports have suggested Otro Capital is considering selling its stake. According to De Telegraaf, Horner is part of a group of investors exploring a potential deal, one that could eventually expand into a wider leadership role within the team.

Such a structure would not be unprecedented in Formula One. At Mercedes, Toto Wolff combines ownership responsibilities with team management.

A tough starting point

Any involvement would come at a difficult moment competitively. Alpine finished last in the most recent constructors’ championship, while Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto ended the season 18th and 20th respectively in the drivers’ standings.

Asked about the reported discussions, Horner did not deny that talks were taking place but declined to comment further.

For now, nothing is signed. But the conversations suggest Horner’s absence from Formula One may be shorter than many expected.

Sources: De Telegraaf