Alpine’s headlines this week aren’t about victories. Instead, it’s a tale of discord and departures. Just four years into their five-year plan to win races and compete for titles, the team seems to have lost its way.
The Monaco Grand Prix brought a fresh wave of controversy for Alpine. Following a collision between Esteban Ocon and his teammate, team principal Bruno Famin publicly hinted at “consequences.” The dynamic within the team further deteriorated as Ocon was seen casually departing the Monaco paddock before the race resumed after Kevin Magnussen’s crash.
Ocon, who has been with Alpine for five years, has announced his departure from the team at the end of this season. He expressed gratitude for his time with the team, calling it a significant part of his career. Despite this, the announcement has fueled speculation. Did Ocon leave on his own accord, or was he pushed out?
Sources reveal that both of Alpine’s drivers are out of contract by the end of this season, and their representatives have been in talks with other teams. This brings into question the timing of the announcement. Was Famin making a power move following his public criticism of Ocon, or was Ocon just tired of the team’s turmoil?
Renault, Alpine’s parent company, has a storied yet tumultuous history in F1. Despite their elite status with 169 victories, the French manufacturer has had its share of ups and downs. Currently, there are whispers about Renault potentially selling its works team. The team has suffered from underfunding, with former team principal Otmar Szafnauer noting they were tens of millions below the cost cap. This financial strain parallels the struggles faced by other teams in the past, like Honda before its sale to Brawn GP.
The driver market is buzzing with potential moves. Renault is reportedly trying to lure Carlos Sainz back, but the Spanish driver has other offers from Williams and Audi. Esteban Ocon’s future remains uncertain until Sainz and Verstappen’s positions are finalized. Meanwhile, the prospect of Andretti Motorsport entering F1 looms over the paddock, adding another layer of intrigue.
In contrast to Alpine’s woes, Williams has been making strides. Purchased by Dorilton Capital five years ago, Williams has now reached the cost cap limit and is improving its facilities. This turnaround highlights the challenges Alpine faces with its corporate management style that seems out of sync with the demands of F1.
Amid rumors and speculations, Alpine’s situation appears increasingly dire. With senior personnel leaving and the team principal lacking F1 experience, the future looks uncertain. As the driver market dominoes start to fall, only time will tell who will steer the ship next year, and whether Alpine can find its way back to the top.
The unfolding drama at Alpine, marked by Esteban Ocon’s exit and rumors of a possible sale of the team, paints a picture of uncertainty. With both drivers out of contract and a shaky management structure, the team’s future hangs in the balance. The coming months will reveal whether Alpine can realign with its ambitious goals or if it will continue to spiral further into turmoil.
