P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Renault’s announced departure from Formula 1 has caused furious reaction in France.
Renault’s decision to discontinue its in-house F1 engine from 2026 is facing criticism from fellow manufacturer Mecachrome. The move by Renault to not produce a power unit for the upcoming regulations in ’26, focusing on improved electrical systems, has sparked concerns. The Viry-Châtillon base, where a prototype unit was being tested, will shift its focus to developing battery and electric technology, with a smaller team to monitor F1. With Alpine set to become a customer team – likely with Mercedes – in 2026, following Aston Martin’s partnership with Honda, the situation is evolving. Mecachrome, supplying engines to F2 and F3, expressed discontent over the shutdown of the 2026 engine project and worries about employee redeployment. Renault’s attempts to acquire projects like the LMDh and contracts for F2 and F3 have raised concerns about the future’s uncertainties and impacts on Mecachrome’s operations. The decision is described as devastating for Mecachrome, affecting the plant’s activities and posing challenges for workshop reorganization.
