P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine’s Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore has had his say on the Renault Group’s plans to cease production of Formula 1 power units for the Alpine team, saying “the problem is the evidence.” Former Alpine Team Principal Bruno Famin made public in July the intention by Renault management to cease production of F1 Power Units in […]
Renault’s decision to stop producing F1 Power Units in Viry-Chatillon and shift Alpine to a Mercedes customer team aims to reduce costs significantly from $120 million to $17 million annually. The underperformance of Viry engines in the hybrid era has been a major factor in this strategic redirection, with reports indicating a power deficit of around 20 horsepower compared to competitors since 2014. This move has sparked discontent among staff representatives, questioning the abandonment of Viry’s legacy and the integration of a Mercedes power unit in the Alpine F1 car. Despite Flavio Briatore’s controversial reputation, he denies responsibility for scrapping the Viry F1 power unit, insisting it was a pre-existing management decision. The new Alpine Team Principal, Oliver Oakes, aims to streamline the team’s operations without job cuts but stresses the importance of efficiency and alignment within the workforce. Briatore emphasizes the need for cohesive teamwork and experience within the F1 squad, highlighting a commitment to retaining employees amid speculation of restructuring.
