Continued F1 discussions for BYD as connections to Horner remain persistent.

      Chinese automotive powerhouse BYD has intensified its Formula 1 aspirations, with senior executives engaging in discussions in Monaco, while Christian Horner remains a focal point in both the manufacturer's plans and the ownership situation at Alpine.

      As reported by Japan’s as.web.jp, BYD's executive vice president Stella Li is in Monaco for talks with Formula 1 officials, the FIA, and team representatives as the company considers a potential entry into the sport.

      "The intention of BYD to enter Formula 1 at the earliest opportunity is now beyond question," the article stated.

      Recent rumors have connected BYD's Formula 1 ambitions with Horner, who was let go by Red Bull last year. Speculation heightened when Li and Horner were spotted together at the Cannes Film Festival.

      The pressing question now is how BYD plans to enter Formula 1.

      The most ambitious approach would involve starting a brand-new team; however, existing teams are likely to resist any further expansion following Cadillac's recent entry, despite the theoretical possibility of a twelfth team spot.

      Acquiring an existing team also appears challenging, as most teams are either backed by manufacturers or currently off the market.

      This leaves title sponsorship of an existing team as the most feasible short-term option, according to the Japanese report.

      In the meantime, Horner's name continues to circulate in connection with Alpine.

      Speaking in Monaco, executive advisor Flavio Briatore confirmed that negotiations regarding Otro Capital’s 24 percent stake in Alpine have recently fallen through.

      "It was negotiated with Toto Wolff," Briatore stated. "It seems the agreement collapsed just three days ago - all negotiations."

      When asked why the Mercedes boss exited the talks, Briatore replied: "It's quite simple. The price was too high."

      "I believe Toto was very reasonable. I don’t think the Otro representatives were."

      Horner has also been associated with a consortium interested in acquiring shares, but Briatore indicated that any agreement would encounter significant hurdles.

      "Anyone purchasing the stake from Otro will need approval from Renault," he noted. "I see it as very difficult for someone to invest 600 million to acquire a minority stake in a company without the majority's agreement."

      While Horner and Renault experienced a strained relationship during Red Bull’s final years as a customer, Briatore insisted there are no personal issues involved.

      "I have a great relationship with Christian," he said. "I've known him for 20 years. There’s no problem at all."

      For now, however, Briatore emphasized that any decisions will be made by Renault, not Alpine management.

      "You need to consult with Renault, not me," he stated.