Flavio Briatore was keen to clarify the situation of Alpine, putting an end to speculation about the commitment of Renault and the team’s ambitions.
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After a turbulent 2025, Alpine seems to have regained its form at the start of this 2026 season. Encouraging results are following one after another, with notably a top 6 in China and another solid performance in Japan. This progress allows the Enstone team to reposition itself in the hierarchy, at the heart of the midfield.
This return to form is partly explained by significant internal structural changes, but also by a strong strategic choice: abandoning the status of an engine manufacturer in favor of a partnership with Mercedes. A decision that is starting to bear fruit, both in performance and consistency.
In this context, some observers have nonetheless questioned Renault’s long-term commitment to Formula 1, fueling rumors of a possible gradual withdrawal.
Briatore responds to doubts about Renault
Faced with these questions, Flavio Briatore wanted to send a clear message. The Italian, who has returned to the heart of the Alpine project, has swept away any ambiguity regarding the involvement of the Renault Group.
“It’s a very difficult question, I don’t know” he initially explains, before specifying the current direction of the team.
“We are simply trying to do our best and progress year after year. Today, we have everything to be competitive and we are very satisfied with the whole team”
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Briatore also insists on the necessity of building solid foundations before aiming for the top.
“We have made a lot of changes and we must lay the foundations, the cornerstone, to build this team” he emphasizes, recalling that this process takes time.
A committed long-term project
Despite external doubts, the internal discourse remains clear : Alpine is part of a sustainable vision. The goal is to return to the top, but without skipping steps.
“It takes a few years, like for everyone else. We want to win, but for now we are working hard and we will see what happens” asserts Briatore, insisting on the patience required in an environment as competitive as F1.
He concludes by reaffirming the total commitment of the various stakeholders: “We are very committed, Renault is committed, and the whole team is as well. We are simply doing our best, like everyone else”
A strong message aimed at reassuring observers and stabilizing the image of a team in full reconstruction, but resolutely focused on the future.
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