The Alpine Formula One team has revealed a series of new investors hailing from diverse sports backgrounds, featuring golf sensation Rory McIlroy, former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, and notable footballers Trent Alexander-Arnold and Juan Mata.
This influx of investment, totalling €200 million (US$212 million), is part of a strategic move led by the Otro Capital consortium to bolster the French team, which operates under the umbrella of parent company Renault.
The recent developments build upon the involvement of Wrexham co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who expanded their sports portfolio by acquiring a 24% stake in the Alpine team. Currently, Alpine holds the sixth position in the 2023 constructors' championship.
Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure in golf who played a pivotal role in Europe's Ryder Cup victory in Rome last month, expressed his excitement about this new endeavor. He stated, "My passion for excellence on the golf course has led me to admire the same pursuit in Formula One.
Collaborating with Otro Capital in Alpine is an exhilarating venture that brings together my love for sports, competition, and the unwavering drive to achieve greatness."
Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua saw this opportunity as too compelling to pass up. He commented, "The team's rich history, combined with the global expansion of Formula One as both a sport and a brand, makes this a very serious proposition. I am thrilled to embark on this journey with Otro and a remarkable group of fellow investors, with the hope of assisting the team in reaching its full potential."
Joining the investor group is Liverpool and England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, along with his brother Tyler. He articulated their shared objective as an investment group, stating, "Our collective aim is to contribute to the ongoing success of the team on the racing circuit, particularly at a time when Formula One is experiencing remarkable growth as a sport."
Alec Scheiner of Otro Capital expressed his gratitude for the involvement of this distinguished group of investors, comprising top-tier athletes, entertainers, and entrepreneurs, all dedicated to elevating the Alpine F1 team to new heights.