P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine suffered a slump in the 2023 season, dropping from fourth to sixth in the Constructors’ after a turbulent season. Can it turn things around in the coming year?
Alpine is determined to become one of the top teams in Formula 1, and they can learn from other teams’ experiences. Mercedes, for example, has faced challenges due to the departure of key technical leaders but is working on rebuilding its empire, much like Alpine. On the other hand, Ferrari has found stability and success by having a strong team boss in place and making wise decisions. Alpine should aim to follow Ferrari’s path.
As one of the few factory teams on the grid, Alpine has the advantage of an integrated chassis and engine. However, the team faced difficulties in 2023 and had to learn some hard lessons. Bruno Famin, who took over as interim Team Principal, started to make progress towards the end of the season. The upcoming 2024 season will be crucial for Alpine’s future.
Alpine has also been known for its internal politics, perhaps more so than any other team. The suits behind the scenes often prioritize short-term progress without understanding that building a winning culture takes time. In F1, decisions made now can have long-term consequences, and stability is crucial for success. Therefore, the recent departures of key personnel, including the Team Principal, CEO, Sporting Director, and Chief Technical Officer, were shocking and destabilizing for the team.
Despite these challenges, Alpine has shown promise with its first ground effects car, the A522, which performed well in the hands of drivers Esteban Ocon and Fernando Alonso. However, Alonso’s departure to Aston Martin was unexpected and disrupted the team’s plans. Overall, Alpine needs to address its internal issues, maintain stability, and continue improving its performance to achieve its ambitions in Formula 1.
