Formule-1 : Mercedes joins race for Alpine F1 minority ownership

Flavio Briatore confirms Mercedes is eyeing a minority stake in Alpine F1 Team. The focus is on the 24% share currently held by Otro Capital, which invested $233 million in 2023. Alpine’s value skyrockets to about $3 billion due to Formula 1’s growth, meaning any sale will exceed the original investment. Briatore reveals negotiations are heating up, stating, "Every day is a new situation." He notes three or four other potential buyers are interested, including former Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner. Although speculation mounts, Briatore insists he won't join the bidding. A Mercedes acquisition could enhance the existing technical relationship, as Alpine is set to use Mercedes power units from 2026. Briatore dismisses concerns about Mercedes influencing Alpine’s sporting decisions, emphasizing the typical dynamics of minority stakes in team governance. Interest in the deal generates buzz in the paddock, with rivals watching closely.