P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine Formula 1 Team Advisor Flavio Briatore has categorically ruled out a sale of the team, stating that Renault Group CEO Luca De Meo, never wants to sell. Technical staff rotation, dwindling performance and intra-organisational strife have marked a turbulent year for the Alpine F1 squad. The latest twist is De Meo’s intention to cease […]
The past year for the Alpine F1 team has been tumultuous due to technical staff rotations, performance decline, and internal conflicts. CEO De Meo intends to end the production of F1 power units in Viry-Chatillon in favor of a customer engine deal, leading to significant changes in team operations. Despite these changes, Briatore, who returned to Alpine in June, asserts that the team is not for sale and will not be sold under De Meo’s leadership. The Renault Group’s decision to switch to Mercedes engines in 2026 is driven by financial reasons rather than solely performance issues, with an expected annual cost saving of $90 million. However, this move has faced opposition from long-standing Viry staff who question the decision to abandon their heritage for a Mercedes power unit. The employees have expressed their concerns through peaceful protests, including a demonstration at the Monza Grand Prix, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a French engine in F1.
