Formula 1 Rumor: Horner’s F1 Return and rumored backing from former McLaren Investors
Just months after parting ways with Red Bull Racing, Christian Horner (pictured) is at the center of intensifying speculation about a high-profile return to Formula 1—this time potentially as an investor and leader at Alpine. Reports suggest the former Red Bull team principal is in discussions with a group of financial backers, most notably MSP Sports Capital, a firm with deep prior ties to McLaren Racing.
–by Mark Cipolloni–
According to Sky News, Horner has been approached by MSP Sports Capital about supporting a bid for Otro Capital’s 24% stake in the Alpine F1 team. MSP, which previously held a significant stake in McLaren Racing (acquired in 2020 and sold in a major transaction last autumn), is part of a wider consortium of interested parties that includes high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutional investors.
Horner, who spent two decades at Red Bull and delivered multiple world championships before his departure last autumn, has been exploring opportunities to re-enter the sport in a ownership or senior leadership capacity. Alpine confirmed last month that Horner and a consortium had expressed interest in acquiring the stake held by Otro Capital, with all discussions directed through the team’s existing shareholders — Otro (24%) and Renault Group (76%).
The potential deal is said to value Alpine in the region of $2 billion to $2.5 billion, reflecting the soaring commercial value of F1 franchises in recent years. However, Horner is understood to be seeking a more substantial, ideally controlling, role — though Renault’s appetite for ceding majority control remains uncertain.
Related Article: Formula 1 Rumor: Horner has a war chest of money to buy into Alpine team
MSP Sports Capital: The McLaren Connection
MSP Sports Capital’s involvement adds intrigue. The American investment firm first backed McLaren Racing in 2020 with a minority stake and exited in 2025 as part of a major refinancing that valued the team significantly higher. Their motorsport experience and successful track record make them a credible partner for any ambitious F1 project.
Sources indicate MSP is one of several backers in talks with Horner, but their participation is not yet confirmed. The firm has declined to comment on the reports.
MSP’s Chairman, Jahm Najafi, is a seasoned investor who plays a critical role in developing founders and management. Over the course of his 30+ year career, he has acquired over 30 businesses, many in sectors that are underserved or undergoing rapid transformation. He is CEO and owner of Najafi Companies, an international private investment firm with holdings in sports, media, technology, consumer, and real estate sectors across several countries. With internally generated capital, the firm makes highly selective investments in companies with strong management teams. Additionally, Najafi served as Vice Chairman for the Phoenix Suns, Vice Chairman of McLaren Racing, and Governor on the board of the National Basketball Association.
Alpine’s Situation
Alpine endured a difficult 2025 campaign, finishing 10th in the constructors’ championship with just 22 points. The Enstone-based squad is now preparing for the all-new 2026 regulations era, making this a pivotal moment for any incoming investment or leadership change.
While no deal has been finalized and talks remain at an exploratory stage, the rumors have gained momentum in the past 48 hours. Horner himself has remained silent publicly on the matter.
For a team that has struggled to compete at the front in recent seasons, bringing in a proven winner like Horner—backed by sophisticated institutional capital—could signal a serious attempt to rebuild. Whether Renault is willing to open the door to a larger external influence, and whether Horner can assemble the right financial package, will be the key questions in the weeks ahead.
This story is developing rapidly. The F1 silly season has officially moved into the boardroom.