In a recent news release, Alpine F1 team announced that they have secured a cash investment of EUR 200 million (approximately Rs. 1,800 crore) from a group of investors, including actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The group of investors, which includes think tank, Otro Capital, RedBird Capital Partners, and Maximum Effort Investments, have bought a 24 percent stake in the Alpine F1 team. The deal values the team owned primarily by the Renault Group at EUR 900 million (approx. Rs. 8,060 crore).
According to the announcement, the investment by the group of investors is related to the Formula 1 team only, while the Renault Group’s engine division will remain under their control and not be part of the deal. The Alpine F1 team has been named after Renault’s niche Alpine sports car brand, and it is said that the investment group will bring to the table their media and marketing capabilities.
The investment by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney is announced to bring in additional celebrity power to the team. Ryan Reynolds, known for his work in films such as Deadpool, Red Notice, and Free Guy, is also the co-owner of the Welsh football club Wrexham AFC. The club, which has seen a turnaround in fortunes since Reynolds and McElhenney took control, has recently earned promotion to the English Football League system (EFL League Two).
Alpine F1 is currently ranked fifth in the Constructors’ Championship for the 2023 F1 season. The team has struggled to maintain competitiveness with the top teams, but this investment can potentially lead to a surge in the team’s fortunes.
The Alpine F1 team will likely seek to create partnerships with the Dallas Cowboys, Toulouse FC, and Wrexham AFC to utilise the media and marketing capabilities of the investor group. Fans of the team may also expect to see the owners of Wrexham AFC, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, in action in a similar capacity for marketing.
According to the announcement, the deal is said to bring value to all parties involved. The Renault Group remains the majority owner and operator of the Alpine F1 team, while the investment from the group led by Reynolds and McElhenney will help boost the team’s finances and marketing capabilities. It remains to be seen how this move will play out in the coming season and whether it will lead to a significant turnaround for the Alpine F1 team, but it is clear that the team has secured a much-needed financial boost which will support its future growth.
