The 24% stake of Otro Capital in the Formula 1 team Alpine has become a highly sought-after asset ahead of the new season. Following the interest previously shown by Christian Horner, director of Red Bull, it is now evident that Toto Wolff, head of the Mercedes team, is also seeking this stake.
Flavio Briatore, executive director of Alpine, has not hidden his knowledge of this interest, confirming Horner’s intention during the team’s presentation in January. However, competition is intensifying with the emergence of Wolff, as first reported by the British media The Telegraph.
At the start of the season in Melbourne, Alpine noted that there are several interested parties in the team’s shares. A spokesperson for the formation commented that they are available for discussions with potential investors, but did not specify names.
Strategic interest for both parties
The rivalry between Wolff and Horner may be one of the attractive factors in the situation, but each one’s interest goes far beyond this competition. Horner is looking for a way to get involved again in Formula 1 following his successes with Red Bull, aspiring to a more prominent role through the acquisition of shares.
For Wolff and Mercedes, the appeal of Alpine’s stake lies in their commercial relationship. This year, Alpine is a client of Mercedes High Performance Powertrains, an agreement that will last until 2030. Alpine’s position as a client team of Mercedes provides a strategic value that cannot be ignored.
Furthermore, the Formula 1 market situation has become increasingly competitive, and acquiring stakes in teams could influence the power dynamics among different teams. Although buying stakes in Alpine involves commitments, the Renault Group will continue to maintain a majority control with 76% of the shares.
With the start of the new season, the prospects of Otro Capital and its impact on Formula 1 will be closely monitored by all those interested in the competition.
SourceID: SRC_2872d9527edccf75aa989e091af03d2931a87ca1