Bruno Famin Steps Down as Alpine F1 Team Principal Amid 2026 Engine Change

Bruno Famin Steps Down as Alpine F1 Team Principal

In a significant development within the world of Formula 1, Bruno Famin has officially announced his resignation from his position as team principal of Alpine F1 at the end of August. Famin's tenure began nearly a year ago, succeeding Otmar Szafnauer right after the Belgian Grand Prix.

Famin's Focus Shifts Back to Alpine Headquarters

Famin stated in his press conference at the Belgium GP, "I will move on to concentrate on the other aspects of my Alpine role, based at their French headquarters in Viry-Chatillon." He currently serves as vice president of their motorsport projects.

Challenges Faced by Alpine F1

The Alpine F1 team is enduring a challenging season, as they find themselves struggling in performance after the introduction of the 2024 car model. The team recently reinstated former team boss Flavio Briatore in an advisory role, aiming to turn things around.

Future of Alpine's Power Unit

In addition to his resignation, Famin confirmed that Alpine is in discussions with various engine manufacturers, aiming to shift away from their existing Renault works engine by 2026, coinciding with a major overhaul of F1's power-unit regulations. He described the restructuring project at the French engine base as a "transformative project" for the Alpine brand.

Considerations for Engine Suppliers

Mercedes is being considered a frontrunner as the supplier for Alpine's power unit in the future, particularly with Aston Martin no longer requiring engines from Mercedes starting in 2026. Famin remarked, "We will dedicate resources to develop new technologies for the new product of the brand. If accepted, this project would mean that the Alpine F1 team could purchase a power unit instead of developing its own."

Important Notes and Upcoming Events

As the restructuring process unfolds, Famin stressed that the legal process must be completed before any further decisions can be finalized. In the interim, discussions with various power unit manufacturers are ongoing.

For fans looking to engage with the latest F1 action, below is the schedule for the upcoming Belgian GP:

• July 27:
• 8:45 am: F3 Sprint
• 11:15 am: Belgian GP Practice Three
• 1:10 pm: F2 Sprint
• 2:15 pm: Belgian GP Qualifying build-up
• 3:00 pm: Belgian GP Qualifying
• July 28:
• 7:25 am: F3 Feature Race
• 8:55 am: F2 Feature Race
• 10:40 am: Porsche Supercup
• 12:30 pm: Grand Prix Sunday - Belgian GP build-up
• 2:00 pm: The BELGIAN GRAND PRIX

Stay tuned for more updates as Alpine F1 navigates these transformative changes and challenges in their 2024 season.