P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine Team Principal Oliver Oakes has ruled out Renault Group CEO Luca De Meo wanting to sell off his Formula 1 asset, despite mounting speculation.
Alpine F1’s new boss, Oakes, took over from Bruno Famin ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix in August. Since then, the team announced plans to switch to a Mercedes customer deal in 2026, closing the F1 power unit operations in Viry-Châtillon. Despite rumors of Alpine being sold, Oakes denied this after their impressive double podium in the Sao Paulo GP. The team experienced significant changes in 2024 to improve performance, including bringing Flavio Briatore onboard as an advisor in June. Oakes praised the passion and dedication of both Briatore and the entire Alpine squad, highlighting the unity between the Enstone and Viry bases. The double podium at Interlagos marked a turning point for the team, setting the stage for a more competitive future in Formula 1.
