Mercedes Officially Exits Alpine F1 Team Ownership Race

Mercedes has withdrawn from the process to acquire a 24% minority stake in Alpine, stepping away this week after concluding the asking price exceeded its valuation thresholds.

Otro Capital bought the holding for about $230 million in 2023 and now seeks roughly $720 million, implying an Alpine valuation near $3 billion.

Mercedes submitted bids earlier in the week but chose not to raise them, ending a pursuit that was framed as an investment rather than a sporting partnership.

Any transaction still depends on Renault, which retains 76% and veto rights on a sale until September 2026. That governance structure keeps Alpine’s parent firmly in control.

CEO Philippe Krief reiterated in Paris that Renault is in no rush to approve a deal and intends to preserve its majority as part of Alpine’s long‑term F1 plan.

Christian Horner remains a prominent potential buyer. He favours an equity position alongside any operational role and has also explored a BYD‑backed new entry.

F1 political concerns persist. McLaren’s Zak Brown urged the FIA to guard against shared ownership, though Mercedes intended a purely financial stake with no junior‑team implications.

Alpine’s leadership needs are clear. Executive advisor Flavio Briatore highlighted the squad’s relative inexperience and the value of seasoned figures to accelerate performance and stability.

With Mercedes out, the sale process continues quietly. Pricing discipline, Renault’s approval, and the bidder’s strategic fit will dictate the next steps over the coming months. After that date, Otro can sell without Renault’s consent.

Mercedes’ focus remains its works programme, underscored by recent engine changes and a fresh upgrade push.

The battle with McLaren and Red Bull intensified after a Mercedes–McLaren showdown.

The valuation jump since 2023 underlines F1’s momentum but raises execution risks for minority investors, especially while Renault’s veto applies and cashflow influence remains limited.

For Alpine, the identity and capability of any new minority partner could shape recruitment, technical direction, and commercial leverage heading towards the 2026 rules cycle.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.