Renault Confirms Alpine Celebrity Investor Deal Failed

Renault CEO Francois Provost has confirmed that Alpine's celebrity-backed investment deal with Otro Capital failed to deliver any operational benefit, with the group now looking to sell its 24 percent stake. Speaking at the British Grand Prix, Provost made clear that Renault retains full control of the team and is in no rush to approve a new minority partner.

Why it matters:

Alpine has faced severe instability after finishing last in 2025, and the collapsed Otro partnership highlights the risks of prioritizing brand buzz over racing infrastructure. With the team now running Mercedes customer power units and showing improved form in 2026, Renault is determined to avoid further distractions and focus on rebuilding competitive foundations.

The details:

• Otro joined RedBird Capital and Maximum Effort Investments in a €200 million deal in 2023, bringing Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and Michael B. Jordan into Alpine's ownership structure to boost commercial reach.
• Provost told The Race that Otro had "no added value" in helping operate the team, and while the investors want to sell, Renault must approve any deal and is prioritizing finding a partner with shared long-term goals.
• Mercedes explored buying the stake but walked away in May after Otro reportedly sought $720 million USD for its 24 percent share, valuing Alpine at roughly $3 billion USD.
• Despite the ownership flux, Alpine currently sits fifth in the 2026 constructors' standings and has secured Gucci as title sponsor from 2027, signaling renewed commercial confidence.

What's next:

Provost said Renault's sole priority is stabilizing the team after several chaotic seasons, ruling out any emotional decisions on ownership or a rushed turnaround. He also confirmed that while he supports F1's proposed V8 engine rules for 2031, Renault will not return as a works engine supplier, cementing Alpine's future as a customer outfit.