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Horner’s F1 Comeback Bid Hits Lock‑Up Snag, With Talks Linked to Alpine and Aston Martin

Shareholder restrictions on Alpine’s minority stake plus Horner’s reported gardening leave push any ownership move to at least September 2026.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets report Horner is holding exploratory discussions backed by US investors, with scenarios tied to Alpine and a potential co-investment in Aston Martin.
  • Reports highlight Otro Capital’s 24% Alpine holding as the key pathway, but a three‑year lock‑up dating from September 2023 and Renault approval would delay any sale until at least September 2026.
  • Alpine is said to be deferring decisions as it prepares to become a Mercedes customer in 2026, with concerns over straining relations given Horner’s long rivalry with Toto Wolff.
  • Horner’s Red Bull exit terms reportedly include gardening leave into spring 2026, raising questions over his ability to take on operational duties even if an investment deal is struck.
  • Aston Martin is also linked in reporting, though Adrian Newey is described as reluctant to reunite with Horner, and some reports suggest Horner is cool on Aston under its current ownership.