P1racenews AI automatic summary:
New F1 engine tech director "will challenge" Alpine – Famin
Experienced power unit engineer Eric Meignan, who previously worked at Mercedes HPP and Ferrari, is returning to France to head the engine department at the Alpine F1 team in preparation for the power unit rule changes in 2026. Alpine is seeking to improve its engine performance compared to rival manufacturers, and Meignan’s expertise and fresh ideas are expected to contribute to that goal. Meignan’s appointment will also support the interim team boss, Laurent Rossi, who has taken on additional roles since the dismissal of team boss Otmar Szafnauer. Alpine had previously claimed that its Renault engines were lacking compared to Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda, but engine equalisation measures were not granted. The new regulations in 2026 aim to eliminate the complex MGU-H system and focus on a balanced combination of electric power and sustainable fuel.
Source: motorsport
