In Europe, people claim that the former Red Bull boss is negotiating with Renault to be part of the French team
Currently, the team's strategic decisions are in the hands of Flavio Briatore, while Dave Greenwood holds the role of team principal on an interim basis. In addition, the relationship between Briatore and Horner is another factor that is fueling speculation about a possible arrival.
The name of Christian Horner is once again shaking up the paddock of Formula 1. Months after his departure from Red Bull, the historic team principal appears to be linked to Alpine, in a move that could mark his return to the category in a different role from the one he held for two decades.
According to the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Horner is holding talks with the Renault Group with the aim of acquiring a share of the French team's equity package, based in Enstone. The British executive's intention would not be solely to return as team principal, but also as a partner, in a structure similar to the one Toto Wolff holds at Mercedes.
The reports are consistent with what was being discussed toward the end of the season. The former Red Bull boss is seeking a project that allows him to have influence in decision-making and an equity stake, a key condition for starting a new cycle in the top category. In that context, Alpine is emerging as a structure in full reconfiguration, with the team principal position vacant after the resignation of Oliver Oakes.
If the deal goes through, Horner wouldn't be able to take on operational duties immediately. The British executive is going through a period of disqualification, known as "Gardening Leave", which runs until June of next year and prevents him from taking part in the day-to-day management of another team, a clause designed to prevent the transfer of sensitive information between teams.
Meanwhile, Alpine is undertaking a deep sporting and technical restructuring, and the possible arrival of Horner as a shareholder represents a move with major political and sporting impact. For now, everything remains in the realm of negotiations, but the move is already beginning to take shape as one of the major storylines of the Formula 1 market.
