Toto Wolff has reportedly made an offer to purchase 24% of Alpine’s shares from the investment fund Otro Capital, according to Telegraph Sport. This is the same stake that Christian Horner is seeking to acquire. If the deal goes through, Mercedes would gain influence over Alpine, with which it has a contract for engines and gearboxes until 2030, although Renault would retain a controlling 76% stake.
Previously, Zak Brown criticized Red Bull’s ownership of two teams as a potential conflict of interest; similar concerns could arise regarding Wolff. The transaction would also reduce the likelihood of Horner returning with his team from Enstone. It is possible that Wolff is attempting to disrupt Horner’s negotiations, using Mercedes power units as leverage.
The amount of Wolff’s offer has not been disclosed, although the 24% stake was previously valued at £448 million. Alpine and Otro Capital have declined to comment, focusing instead on preparation for the season.
