Christian Horner is apparently negotiating a Formula 1 comeback, with MSP Sports Capital said to be interested in a joint Alpine investment.
Christian Horner’s return to Formula 1 may be drawing nearer. According to a report by Sky News, the former Red Bull team boss is in talks with MSP Sports Capital. The focus is on a possible investment in the Alpine team.
MSP Sports Capital divested its McLaren Racing shares in September 2025. Now the investment company is looking for a new opportunity to enter the premier class. Horner is playing a key role in this.
Horner’s era at Red Bull ended in July 2025.
Laurent Mekies, previously team principal at Racing Bulls, took over his position. Since then, speculation has been rife about a possible comeback for the Brit in the paddock.
Horner doesn’t just want to participate
“Well, so far I’ve been with pretty much every team on the grid,” Horner responded when asked about the latest rumors.
Since leaving Red Bull, he has deliberately kept a low profile. “It’s flattering that there is often this speculation.”
But Horner has clear priorities. Not every opportunity justifies a return. “I would only come back for the right opportunity, working with the right people who are like-minded and want to win,” he clarified.
He shows no interest in simply participating. A possible return would also differ significantly from his previous role. “I have served my time. If I were to come back, it would be in a slightly different role than the one I held for 21 years.”
It could also be over
External investors’ interest in the sport is reaching record highs. Fantastic people wanted to invest in Formula 1, according to Horner. Nevertheless, he is not rushing into anything. His career could also end with the Red Bull chapter.
“I’ve had an incredible run,” the 52-year-old summed up. “I would only come back for something that is really exciting and that can ultimately win.” The bar is set high. The Sky News report now provides more concrete details. According to the report, MSP Sports Capital is not acting alone. A broad group of investors has already held talks with Horner. These include wealthy individuals, family offices, and institutional investors.
“MSP was among a large group that held talks with Horner about supporting his next deal in the sport,” the report said. The range of potential partners is considerable. Alpine has been struggling for years to catch up with the leaders.
A man with Horner’s track record could give the Renault factory team the decisive boost it needs. His 21 years at Red Bull speak for themselves.
Whether the talks will lead to action remains to be seen. Horner is demonstratively calm and is keeping all options open. The coming weeks will show whether the speculation will intensify or fizzle out.