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Christian Horner in ‘ongoing’ talks to buy Alpine after missing out on Aston Martin role

Originally posted on HITC | By Ben Evans | Last updated Nov 27, 2025 8:17 AM ET

Former Red Bull boss explores ownership pathways as Alpine faces a crossroads ahead of 2026

Christian Horner may have been passed over for the Aston Martin team principal job in favour of Adrian Newey, but the longtime Red Bull chief is far from stepping away from Formula 1. Despite Newey’s appointment ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix — with his role starting officially in 2026 — Horner continues to pursue ways back into the paddock, but with ambitions that go well beyond the team principal position.

According to reporters Jon Noble and Robert Doornbos, Horner has remained proactive in assessing options that give him not only authority but also equity. His demands to Aston Martin reportedly included a part-ownership stake, and conversations have expanded beyond Lawrence Stroll’s team. Alpine has now emerged as a key focal point in Horner’s ongoing negotiations, particularly as the French outfit faces structural and competitive uncertainty heading into 2026.

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Horner evaluates Alpine amid reports of investor consortium

Speaking on The Race F1 Podcast, Noble revealed that Horner has held discussions not just with Aston Martin, but also with Alpine, where talks remain “ongoing.” Horner is believed to be looking for more than a team principal title — he wants influence, control, and a meaningful ownership position. Noble added that Horner could fit naturally into a CEO role, handling commercial, staffing, and strategic duties while allowing Newey — now team principal at Aston Martin — more creative space.

Doornbos went further on The Pit Talk Podcast, stating he had heard Horner is forming a consortium of investors to purchase Alpine, a team currently struggling both competitively and financially. Such a move would give Horner both the shares he desires and a direct route back into F1 leadership.

Alpine approaches 2026 at a turning point after disastrous season

Alpine is heading toward the 2026 regulations in turmoil, likely to finish last in the constructors’ championship after a steep decline from sixth place in 2024. Internal changes have included Franco Colapinto replacing Jack Doohan and Steve Nielsen taking over as team principal while Flavio Briatore continues in an overarching leadership role.

The team’s decision to abandon Renault engines in favour of Mercedes power units from 2026 marks a dramatic shift, effectively giving up their works team status. Renault’s long-term commitment appears uncertain, which has opened the door for potential investors — including Horner — as the team considers selling a partial stake.

How Alpine performs in early 2026 may dictate whether Horner’s return to Formula 1 comes through an ambitious ownership-driven move with the Anglo-French outfit.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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