Christian Horner has received a significant setback in his efforts to return to Formula 1 after the chief executive of Renault Group stated there are currently "no discussions" with the former Red Bull team principal. Renault is the majority shareholder in the Alpine team, into which Horner, backed by several investors, had hoped to buy.
Horner's Quest for an F1 Comeback
Horner has been seeking a route back into the paddock since being dismissed by Red Bull following last July's British Grand Prix. Earlier this year, Alpine chief Flavio Briatore confirmed that Horner, 52, was among a group of investors keen on acquiring Otro Capital's 24 percent shareholding in the Enstone-based outfit. Renault Group retains the remaining 76 percent stake in Alpine.
Mercedes had also shown interest in purchasing Otro's share but pulled out of talks last week, which had appeared to strengthen Horner's position. However, Renault Group CEO Francois Provost told the Press Association: "There is no discussion today with Christian. We are assessing the options. I want the Renault Group to keep the control of our team, whoever could be the successor of Otro. I saw there are no further discussions [with Mercedes] now. I was not so satisfied to see that we are not progressing."
Provost added: "I would like to make two comments about this. The first one is that this Otro issue doesn't impact us at all as a team because we are in control. And the second point is that we will keep the control of our Formula 1 team. Alpine is an independent team and we intend to keep control."
Horner's 'Unfinished Business' in F1
Horner has stated he has "unfinished business" in a sport where he presided over eight world drivers' championships and six constructors' titles. Alongside Alpine, Horner has been linked with Aston Martin and Chinese car manufacturer BYD, the latter of which could see him helm a bid to create a potential 12th team on the F1 grid.
Nevertheless, speaking to the PA in March, Mercedes chief Toto Wolff suggested his rival's comeback could be obstructed by the "repercussions" of "having broken a lot of glass" throughout his two decades in F1. Such damaged relationships could prove to be a stumbling block in Horner's quest to get back into the paddock.
Renault's Stance on Alpine Control
As majority owner of the Alpine team, Renault can block the sale of Otro's shares, and it has been reported that the French manufacturer would prevent Horner's participation. When that assertion was put directly to Provost, he merely responded: "Today, there is no discussion."
The Alpine team will next season be renamed as Gucci Racing Alpine Formula One Team following the confirmation of a profitable partnership with the renowned Italian fashion house. It is understood the deal could be worth in excess of £115 million for Alpine, which is far more than they are bringing in from current name sponsor BWT.
Provost added: "It is a unique and historic partnership; the first time a top, top luxury brand becomes the title sponsor of a Formula 1 team. I see on one side excellence in luxury with a top brand, and on the other side, excellence in automotive technology with Alpine and the Renault Group. I see huge potential from next season."
