Laurent Mekies: Alpine's withdrawal from F1 power unit manufacturing a setback
- Planet Sport writer
- 5 August 2024
Alpine has announced plans to withdraw as a Formula 1 power unit manufacturer, a decision that has been met with dismay by some key figures in the sport.
Laurent Mekies has expressed his displeasure with Alpine's plans, calling the withdrawal "bad news" for the series.
Mekies believes that the reduction in the number of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) from six to five will negatively impact Formula 1.
Bruno Famin, the outgoing Team Principal, revealed that Alpine will shut down its F1 power unit operation at Viry-Chatillon, France.
This strategic move is part of Alpine's broader intention to refocus on its car brand. As a result, the F1 grid will see only five OEMs from 2026 onwards: Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, Audi, and Red Bull.
"I think it's always a bad news when you lose an OEM," he said.
"And of course, from what Bruno is saying, the OEM will stay as a team, but obviously, one of the big targets of these new regulations in 2026 was to attract more OEMs.
"So ultimately, if it goes as Bruno said, it means that we'll get plus one with Audi and minus one with Alpine. So I don't think it's a good news.
"However, it comes, luckily, at a time where there is many manufacturers in Formula 1. So I would say that the sport can well afford this change. But it's never a good news when we lose a PU manufacturer."
In light of Alpine's exit, the company has already initiated discussions with Mercedes for a technical partnership in Formula 1.
This potential collaboration could help Alpine maintain a competitive edge despite its withdrawal from direct power unit manufacturing.
Alessandro Alunni Bravi, Team Representative at Sauber, clarified that Alpine's decision is not directly linked to the upcoming 2026 power unit regulation changes.
These changes have, however, facilitated Audi's entry into Formula 1 through the Sauber takeover, highlighting a significant shift in the sport's landscape.
Mekies' concerns underline the broader implications of Alpine's withdrawal. The reduction in the number of OEMs could limit the diversity and competitiveness of the sport, a sentiment echoed by other industry insiders.
