Say goodbye to Renault, and hello Alpine

Michelle Foster
Renault F1 PA

Renault F1 PA

Renault’s Formula 1 works team will be rebranded the ‘Alpine F1 Team’ from 2021 with Cyril Abiteboul dreaming of race wins.

Earlier this week Renault, under the leadership of Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo, announced that it was evaluating its various brands including Alpine.

That led to rumours that the Renault name could leave Formula 1 with the team rebranded Alpine as of next season.

Renault confirmed the change on Sunday.

“Alpine is a beautiful brand, powerful and vibrant, that brings a smile to the faces of its followers,” said De Meo.

“By introducing Alpine, a symbol of French excellence, to the most prestigious of the world’s automotive disciplines, we are continuing the adventure of manufacturers in a renewed sport.

“We are bringing a dream brand alongside the biggest names, for spectacular car races made and followed by enthusiasts. Alpine will also bring its values to the F1 paddock: elegance, ingenuity, and audacity.”

The team will race in blue, representing the colours of France and running with the national tricolore.

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The rebrand follows this week’s announcement that Abiteboul would be heading up the Alpine business.

The team boss added: “This change comes at a key moment in the trajectory of the team and the sport. Alpine brings a new meaning, new values and colours to the paddock with the spirit of competition from other worlds and French creative agility.

“These will be assets in the preparation of 2022 deadlines. The new regulatory and financial framework will establish the conditions for a fairer motor sport in its redistribution of revenues; simpler and progressive in its governance.

“The implementation of the “budget cap” will put an end to the expense race and will allow the signatory teams to be measured for their sporting value.

“Alpine has its place in Formula 1 and can challenge for victory.”

Alpine has confirmed its 2021 driver line up with Fernando Alonso returning to the team with whom he won the 2005 and 2006 World titles. He will partner Esteban Ocon.

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