Renault is making headlines again in the Formula 1 world as rumors swirl about the company’s potential withdrawal from the sport. This speculation comes despite Renault’s impressive history of over 100 Grand Prix victories, with Esteban Ocon’s 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix win standing as a recent highlight. However, since parting ways with Red Bull, their performance has not met expectations.
The murmurs of Renault’s possible exit from Formula 1 have intensified, especially with the looming changes set for 2026. That year, Formula 1 plans to introduce new power units, combining hybrid and electrical energy with sustainable fuels. The 2023 FIA report suggests Renault is currently trailing its competitors, raising doubts about their capability to adapt to these advancements. Consequently, Renault’s hesitancy to invest heavily in developing a new engine has surfaced, prompting Alpine’s team principal, Bruno Famin, to consider alternatives.
Alpine, the rebranded works team, is allegedly exploring partnerships with rival manufacturers for engine supply. Notably, there’s talk of collaboration with Red Bull, who are slated to produce their own engines by 2026. While Renault’s future in engine manufacturing hangs in the balance, Alpine’s stance on team ownership remains unchanged; they insist the team is not for sale.
In April, an Alpine spokesperson firmly denied rumors of the team being on the market, a sentiment echoed by Renault’s CEO, Luca de Meo. De Meo stated emphatically that selling any part of the team is not an option, asserting that the brand’s involvement in F1 is not just a business venture but a matter of pride and identity. “I want to make this very clear. There is no way we are going to give up,” he affirmed confidently. Despite various offers, Renault remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining its presence in Formula 1.
While Renault’s future as a power unit supplier in Formula 1 is uncertain, their commitment to the sport through Alpine is steadfast. The coming years will reveal whether Renault will continue under its own power or pivot towards being a customer team. One thing is clear; for now, they are not stepping back from the high-speed world of Formula 1.
