Toto Wolff Hits Back at Christian Horner Over F1 Block Rumour

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has dismissed suggestions that the team’s reported interest in Alpine shares is driven by a desire to block Christian Horner from returning to Formula 1.

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Speculation has been building in recent months after it emerged that Otro Capital could sell its 24 per cent stake in the Alpine F1 Team. The development coincided with Christian Horner exploring a route back into the sport following his mid-season exit from Red Bull Racing in 2025.

Christian Horner has been linked with multiple teams, including Aston Martin F1 Team and Scuderia Ferrari, but more recent reports have suggested he is working with a group of investors to acquire a stake in Alpine.

Toto Wolff rejects the rivalry narrative

Addressing the rumours, Wolff made it clear that Mercedes’ interest in the potential investment is unrelated to Horner.

He insisted that any evaluation of Alpine shares is being approached purely from a business standpoint, rejecting claims that it is part of a personal rivalry.

“The idea that there is a rivalry between Christian and me around who buys an Alpine stake is made up,” Wolff said. “It would be quite sad if that was a consideration.”

He added, “ Mercedes is still assessing whether such an investment would make strategic sense and has yet to reach a final decision.

Doubts over Christian Horner’s return

Toto Wolff also cast doubt over Horner’s prospects of returning to a senior role in Formula 1, suggesting his past approach may have had lasting consequences.

Toto Wolff said, “He has broken quite a lot of glass, and these things have repercussions in our microcosm.”

The comments point to a potentially challenging path for Christian Horner, despite ongoing speculation about his next move.

With multiple parties reportedly exploring the Alpine stake, the situation remains fluid. Mercedes has not confirmed any formal bid, while Horner’s involvement in a potential consortium remains unverified.

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