Mercedes has walked away from acquiring a 24% minority share in the Alpine Formula 1 team after rejecting Otro Capital’s $720 million asking price.
Valuation dispute ends potential deal
Although the German manufacturer already supplies Alpine with power units and gearboxes, negotiations collapsed when the price proposed by the Luxembourg‑based investor exceeded Mercedes’ assessment of the squad’s worth. The $720 million figure values Alpine at roughly $3 billion, a level the team’s prospective buyer deemed financially unsound.
Ownership dynamics and alternative suitors
Otro Capital bought the stake in June 2023 for $233 million. Renault, Alpine’s majority shareholder, retains a veto right over any transfer of that share until September, a leverage that could shape the next owner’s identity. Among the interested parties is a consortium led by former Red Bull boss Christian Horner, highlighting the strategic importance of Alpine’s minority block.
Gucci secures title sponsorship ahead of 2027 rebrand
This week the Enstone‑based outfit announced a landmark partnership with luxury group Gucci, set to rename the team Gucci Racing Alpine from 2027 onward. The deal replaces water‑technology sponsor BWT and includes a full livery redesign. Luca de Meo, the former Alpine CEO now at Kering, facilitated the agreement alongside team advisor Flavio Briatore.
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