Former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is reportedly in advanced discussions about a sensational return to Formula 1, with a potential move to the Alpine team that could trigger a significant financial payout for heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua and golf star Rory McIlroy.
Horner's Path Back to the F1 Paddock
Christian Horner, 52, officially left Red Bull in September 2025 after a severance agreement, following his initial dismissal from the team principal role in July. His departure concluded a tumultuous 18-month period that began when a female employee accused him of sexual harassment, allegations he consistently denied. An internal investigation and a subsequent appeal both cleared Horner of any wrongdoing.
Having led Red Bull from its debut in 2005 to eight drivers' championships and six constructors' titles, Horner is now eyeing a comeback. According to reports from Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, the earliest he could rejoin the sport is in the spring of 2026, once his mandatory gardening leave from Red Bull expires.
The Alpine Investment Opportunity
Horner's target is the struggling Alpine F1 team, where his friend Flavio Briatore is in charge. While the Renault Group holds the majority stake, a 24% share is owned by an American investment consortium named Otro Capital. This group boasts a roster of high-profile sports and entertainment figures as investors.
Among Otro's investors are boxer Anthony Joshua, golfer Rory McIlroy, Liverpool footballer Trent Alexander-Arnold, and actor Ryan Reynolds. Rumours suggest the consortium may be looking to sell its stake, creating an opening for Horner and a group of his own backers to acquire it.
Major Windfall for Star Investors
This potential deal could mean a substantial payday for the celebrities involved. For Anthony Joshua, whose net worth is already estimated at a colossal £113 million and who is set to earn around £70 million for his fight with Jake Paul, the sale of his stake would further boost his finances.
Horner's rumoured interest isn't limited to a leadership role; he is said to be keen on securing an ownership stake in a team. This follows his earlier links to Aston Martin, a role that ultimately went to his former colleague Adrian Newey.
If the move proceeds, Horner would take the helm at Alpine after one of its worst-ever seasons. The Oxfordshire-based team finished bottom of the 2025 constructors' championship, with drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto languishing in 18th and 20th places respectively in the drivers' standings.
When approached for comment on the speculation, Horner did not deny being in discussions with Alpine but declined to elaborate further.
