F1's power struggle intensifies as Alpine stake sale sparks ownership debate
Formula 1 is facing fresh uncertainty over team ownership and leadership. A 24% stake in Alpine has gone up for sale, drawing interest from Mercedes—but the FIA may block the deal. Meanwhile, the sport’s president has hinted at a possible return for Christian Horner, currently suspended from Red Bull. The Miami Grand Prix marked the end of a five-week break in the F1 season. Mercedes’ young driver Kimi Antonelli took victory, securing his third straight win. Off the track, however, attention shifted to Alpine’s future.
Otro Capital has put its 24% stake in Alpine on the market, with Mercedes among the bidders. The stake carries significant influence, including control over driver and team principal appointments, as well as some say in F1’s broader operations. Renault, which owns the remaining shares, holds veto power over any sale until September. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has made clear his opposition to multi-team ownership. The governing body is now considering a ban, which could force Red Bull to sell its junior team, Racing Bulls. Such a move might also prevent Mercedes from acquiring Alpine’s stake. Ben Sulayem has also suggested that a ban on multi-team ownership could pave the way for Christian Horner’s return. The suspended Red Bull team principal has been absent since February, and the FIA president admitted he ‘misses’ Horner’s presence in the sport.
The FIA’s potential ban on multi-team ownership would reshape F1’s structure. If enforced, it could block Mercedes’ Alpine bid and push Red Bull to offload Racing Bulls. Meanwhile, Alpine’s future leadership—and a possible comeback for Horner—now hinges on Renault’s decision before the September deadline.
