Wolff Isn't Blocking Horner's Return To F1 -- But Mercedes’ Alpine Interest Raises Stakes

Last Updated:March 13, 2026, 20:42 IST

Mercedes are in talks to buy a 24% stake in Alpine, a move that could complicate Christian Horner’s hopes of returning to F1.

The fierce rivalry between Toto Wolff and Christian Horner has produced some of Formula 1’s spiciest paddock drama in recent years.

But if fans expected Wolff to personally block Horner’s return to the sport, the reality may be a little less petty — but far more strategic.

Speaking to the media at the Chinese Grand Prix, Flavio Briatore revealed that Mercedes are in talks to buy a stake in the Alpine F1 Team.

Crucially, Briatore stressed the negotiations are with Mercedes as a company, not Wolff himself.

“I know it’s a negotiation with Mercedes, not with Toto," Briatore said. “In this moment, we have three or four potential buyers."

What’s At Stake

The talks revolve around a 24% share owned by Otro Capital, an investment group backed by names such as Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Patrick Mahomes and Rory McIlroy.

Horner, who was infamously sacked by Red Bull Racing last year with a reported £80 million payoff, is also believed to be exploring the same investment as he looks for a way back into Formula 1.

That’s where things could get interesting.

From 2026, Mercedes will supply Alpine with engines and gearboxes under the new power-unit rules, in a partnership that is expected to run until at least 2030.

If Mercedes also acquires a stake in the team, the relationship could deepen dramatically.

It would also spark fresh questions about whether Alpine might effectively become a Mercedes-aligned sister team — a concept rivals have long criticised. (especially when it comes to Red Bull’s two-team structure)

For Horner, that adds a fresh twist. Because, if Mercedes land the deal first, his path back to the  F1 grid could suddenly become a lot tougher.

News sports formula-one Wolff Isn't Blocking Horner's Return To F1 -- But Mercedes’ Alpine Interest Raises Stakes

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