In late September, Alpine’s team announced that it would cease production of its own Formula 1 engines. The factory in Viry-Châtillon is being transformed into a ‘hub for street car technology’, marking the end of the Renault power source. “It wasn’t an easy decision,” explained team boss Oliver Oakes, who hopes to announce a new supplier soon.
“This has been in the works for a while, actually before I joined the team,” Oakes told Formula1.com. The Brit was announced as Bruno Famin’s replacement during the summer break. This only proves that Alpine is facing organizational difficulties – Oakes is the third team boss in just one year. “I think it wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe the essence is that we want the best engine in the car,” he explained. “We are now evaluating what is best for the team.”
Anticipation of News by Year-End
“I’m fairly certain we’ll have news before the end of the year,” Oakes revealed. “But at this moment, an investigation is still ongoing.” The team boss, who until recently worked at the training team Hitech Grand Prix, reflected positively on his first months in Formula 1. “It was intense, but also a lot of fun,” he shared. “It’s clear that there’s still a lot of work to be done.” Since Oakes took over the helm in Enstone, Alpine has scored two World Championship points, bringing the total to thirteen.
Potential Collaboration with Mercedes?
“Formula 1 is particularly exciting because of all the young talent that is now emerging,” Oakes continued. “In our case, I think we have a good line-up.” Alpine is replacing Esteban Ocon next year with reserve driver Jack Doohan. Pierre Gasly remains to teach the Australian the ropes. “It will be a mix of youth and experience,” the team boss concluded. “That’s always good to see.”
According to the latest rumors, Alpine is set to collaborate with Mercedes. The Formula 1 team is lobbying with various manufacturers, but at the insistence of advisor Flavio Briatore, the German power sources are favored. Mercedes will lose customer team Aston Martin by 2026 – which by then will have an exclusive deal with Honda – and is open to a new collaboration with the team from Enstone.
