Alpine's F1 future uncertain amid leadership changes

Famin, who took on the role just a year ago, will step down at the end of August, leaving behind a team that has faced significant challenges throughout the 2024 F1 season.

Under Famin's stewardship, Alpine struggled to find competitive pace, initially languishing towards the back of the grid. Despite some improvements, the team have accumulated only nine championship points after the first 13 races.

This lacklustre performance has fuelled rumours about the future of the French squad.

In a recent statement, Famin dismissed suggestions that Alpine might be up for sale. "No, the Formula 1 project remains a key project for the Alpine brand," he asserted.

"It's thanks to Formula 1 that we want to enhance our brand awareness on a global scale."

Famin explained that the changes at Alpine, including the team's shift to a customer squad following Renault's planned withdrawal as an engine supplier, were part of a strategic realignment rather than a precursor to a sale.

"The project is reallocating resources to develop the brand better, always based on the pillar of motorsport, mainly Formula 1, to boost brand awareness," he added.

The transition away from Renault's involvement in F1 will reduce the number of engine suppliers for the 2026 regulations to five. This imminent shift has added urgency to Alpine's decision-making process regarding their power unit for the new generation of cars.

Famin noted the importance of finalising their engine choice soon, given the need to align it with their chassis development.

"We are at a very specific crossroads where the project for developing the Alpine brand is now very concrete and clear," Famin said. "We know the resources required for this development. With the new chassis regulations published recently, it is crucial that we decide on the power unit as soon as possible.

"The design team needs to know which power unit will be used to build the chassis effectively."

As Alpine navigate these pivotal changes, attention will turn to the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix, the 14th race of the 2024 F1 season. Scheduled for July 28, the race will take place over 44 laps at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, a venue renowned for its challenging layout and historical significance in the sport.