Mercedes has withdrawn from negotiations to purchase a minority stake in rival F1 team Alpine, deeming the valuation too expensive. The Silver Arrows believe Otro Capital's asking price of approximately €700m for the 24% stake is excessive, especially since Mercedes values the entire team at €3bn.

The investment firm Otro Capital purchased their Alpine stake in 2023 for just €200m. A consortium associated with former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner remains interested in purchasing the shares, while Mercedes will become Alpine's engine suppliers for the 2026 season.

McLaren CEO Zak Brown criticized the potential purchase, arguing that multi-team ownership compromises F1's sporting integrity. "All 11 teams should be absolutely as independent as possible," Brown stated, referencing instances where he believes teams have gained unfair advantages through collaboration.