Alpine is experiencing a challenging F1 season in 2024, facing difficulties right from the start. The A524 car they began with was both under-powered and overweight. The team underwent significant management changes, including the sudden removal of Otmar Szafnauer as the top executive and Alan Permane as the Sporting Director just before the 2023 Belgian Grand Prix. Pat Fry, the Chief Technical Officer, also departed for Williams.
These alterations occurred shortly after Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi was fired. Famin took on the role of Team Principal on an interim basis before being officially confirmed in 2024. Despite the reshuffling, the team managed to secure a podium finish in Zandvoort, with Pierre Gasly claiming third place. However, this achievement was not a true reflection of the team’s performance. It was primarily due to mixed weather conditions rather than the car’s genuine pace. The remainder of the previous season was filled with inconsistency and disappointment for the French squad.
Unfortunately, the 2024 F1 season has not started any better for Alpine. They have yet to score a single point after four races and currently find themselves at the bottom of the Constructors’ Standings. Additionally, rumors have circulated that the Renault board may be considering selling their struggling F1 operation. This puts Famin in a difficult position as the team continues to lose key personnel, including Technical Director Matt Harman and Head of Aerodynamics Dirk de Beer.
In an interview with the Official Website of Formula 1, the Frenchman attempted to downplay all the rumors and difficulties that have been circulating. He emphasized that Alpine has a genuine plan in place, aiming to enhance the global recognition of the Alpine brand through motorsport, particularly Formula 1. Famin reassured that the team has the full support of top management and is not up for sale. He expressed their determination to continue striving towards their objectives.
However, Famin acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating that it is not a pleasant period for the team. He made it clear that their goal is not to settle for 15th or 16th place, but to be at the forefront of the competition. They aspire to improve the car’s performance and compete for podium finishes and victories as soon as possible. Famin emphasized that the board members understand the challenges they face and highlighted the support they receive from the higher-ups at Renault. He recognized the difficulty of the task ahead and the need to raise their standards and level of performance.
Famin drew inspiration from the history of the team, formerly known as Renault, and how they were initially underestimated in the 1970s. He emphasized the importance of using the current difficult period as an opportunity to become stronger. Famin acknowledged that every team goes through ups and downs, and they are currently facing a downturn. However, he assured that they will make the necessary changes within the team to achieve their goals and emerge stronger.
As the Vice President of Alpine Motorsport, Famin attributed the team’s current shortcomings to the decisions made by his predecessors. He emphasized that their focus is on the present and expressed satisfaction with the team’s current efforts. Famin acknowledged that they have a long way to go and plenty of room for improvement.
The new regulations for Formula 1 will replace the current ones in 2026, introducing new power units and cars. Famin, who aims to change Alpine’s fortunes by then, disclosed that Viry, Alpine’s engine base in France, has been diligently working on the new engine regulations for a considerable period. He expressed satisfaction with their progress and the ambitious level they have reached. However, he acknowledged the uncertainty of their competitors’ actions. Famin emphasized the goal of returning to the top of the grid and significantly improving their position through the major regulatory changes in 2026. He emphasized the importance of seizing this opportunity and achieving consistency, rather than fluctuating between different rankings each year.
Alpine’s current situation poses a risk of starting 2026 at a disadvantage. Despite the wise decision to assign Szafnauer the task of delivering results in 2026 and allowing him to establish a stable operation, he was abruptly dismissed along with key technical figures. Even if replacements and new staff members are brought in, considering the gardening leaves, they will not have sufficient time to integrate into the team and start producing results. This raises important considerations for the decision-makers at Renault and Alpine.