Although Alpine has generally gone under the radar in F1 news circles this winter, there are still question marks surrounding the team heading into 2024. After consecutive campaigns marred by instability, they will hope to buck the trend this season.
In theory, the managerial merry-go-round at Alpine is still incomplete. Bruno Famin remains the interim team principal, a position which, by definition, is not intended to be permanent.
Evidently, the Enstone-based team is in no rush to appoint someone they do not believe is suited to the role. This means Famin could continue leading the team for some time, although the alternatives under consideration remain unclear.
In any case, there are other more imminent ongoings for the manufacturer squad to contend with. Primarily, their energies and resources will be diverted to preparing this year’s car.
Esteban Ocon (FRA) Alpine F1 Team A523.
02.04.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 3, Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park, Melbourne, Australia, Race Day.
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Questions to answer in Bahrain testing
Speaking of which, there are lingering concerns heading into the 2024 car launches and February pre-season testing sessions.
For Alpine, a source of frustration will be that last year’s weaknesses could carry over into this year. More specifically, the limiting factor at Alpine could be the Renault engine.
When the manufacturer suad embarked on the current regulations, they were unapologetic about their philosophy to engine development. Performance was the priority, whilst reliability was sidelined to a later date.
Unfortunately for Alpine, they are relatively weak in both categories. Engine output and ERS efficiency are below the level of rivals, whilst reliability (though improved in 2023) is far from stellar.
The concern will be that overturning their engine deficit will require an unrealistic aerodynamic advantage over their rivals.
Reports have filtered about these fears, which could manifest themselves in another midfield scrap this year. Although this cannot be predicted with certainty, it is clear that Alpine has several doubts to dispel.
Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly’s contracts are also expiring. This presents another task for Bruno Famin and his personnel to address in the coming months.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
