Why it matters:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff humorously suggested that a potential collaboration between Christian Horner, Bernie Ecclestone, and Flavio Briatore at the Alpine F1 team would be a "mafia reunion," generating significant buzz for Formula 1. This comes amid rumors of Horner seeking investment opportunities in an F1 team following his departure from Red Bull.
The big picture:
Christian Horner was dismissed as Red Bull team principal in July. Paddock speculation has linked him to a potential investment in Alpine, possibly backed by former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone and Alpine executive adviser Flavio Briatore, who is a close friend of Horner.
Wolff's take:
- Wolff believes such a high-profile trio would create "an exciting story" and "lots of buzz" around F1.
- He likened it to the "grand era of team owners and team principals" like Frank Williams, Ron Dennis, Flavio Briatore, and Luca di Montezemolo, suggesting F1 needs more such personalities.
- "If there was such an exciting project, these three guys coming together, all of the mafia reunited, that would give good content," Wolff remarked.
Alpine's current ownership:
The Renault Group holds a majority stake. US-based Otro Capital owns 24%, with investors including Anthony Joshua, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Rory McIlroy, Ryan Reynolds, and Rob McElhenney.
Briatore's denial:
Flavio Briatore, who led Renault to championship wins in 2005 and 2006, has dismissed the rumors.
- "I’m not considering in this moment anything," Briatore stated.
- He added, "Christian is not in Formula 1 in this moment anymore, I hope he comes back soon, but for the moment he’s not in the picture of Alpine."