MIAMI, May 4 - Formula One's governing body is examining whether multi-team ownership should be allowed, following reports that Mercedes is interested in a minority stake in Renault-owned Alpine.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said at the Miami Grand Prix that he personally opposes the idea but recognizes the arguments in favor.
Red Bull currently operates two of the 11 teams-Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls-with centrally contracted drivers and seamless personnel movement, which rivals like McLaren's Zak Brown say creates an unfair advantage and risk of collusion.
Ben Sulayem stated multi-team ownership could be acceptable if done for the "right reasons," but emphasized, "owning two is not the right way."
Horner's Return Expected
Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner, fired last July, has been linked to a 24 percent stake in Alpine held by investors. Alpine's Flavio Briatore confirmed Mercedes is also interested, a move that could sideline Horner.
Ben Sulayem expects Horner to return: "Who can remove Christian Horner's name from motorsport? You can't. We miss him in this sport. He will be back."