Renault veto expires as Horner targets Alpine equity stake for F1 return

According to Alpine's Articles of Association, filed at the UK's Companies House, confirm the veto had a three-year lifespan that ended on that date.

The former Red Bull team principal has been on the sidelines since his controversial sacking in July 2025, ending a 20-year tenure that delivered eight drivers' championships and six constructors' titles. He is now free to return to the paddock after the terms of his settlement expired and has been linked with Alpine.

Otro Capital purchased the 24 per cent holding in 2023 for $200 million, valuing the team at $900 million. Since then, Formula 1 team valuations have soared.

Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore told The Race Business podcast in August that the team is now worth a valuation of $3.2 billion, which would represent roughly a 4x return for Otro Capital.

Horner, who has previously spoken about having 'unfinished business' in Formula 1, has been open about wanting more than a team principal position in his next move, instead seeking a meatier role with an equity stake involved.

His desire mirrors the model Toto Wolff holds at Mercedes, where he still owns 28 per cent of the team. With Otro actively looking to offload its holding, Alpine represents his most obvious route back.

There are still hurdles. Renault can still veto up to three offers after the September 8 date, though sources indicated this is not considered a serious obstacle for any credible bidder, as bids can be altered and renewed.

Renault CEO Francois Provost appeared to distance the company from Horner back in June. Provost added that Renault intends to keep control of the team, whoever could be the successor of Otro. With the veto now expired, however, the landscape has shifted considerably.

Horner has also been linked with Ferrari in recent days, as speculation over the future of Fred Vasseur heats up.

Reports suggest Horner previously declined Ferrari's top job after an approach from chairman John Elkann, though his name remains part of the succession conversation.

A move to Maranello appears unlikely, however, given Horner's stated desire for a bigger role and equity involvement that Ferrari would struggle to offer.

With the Renault veto now expired, the Alpine route remains the clearest path for one of F1's most successful former team principals to stage his comeback.