Rumors about a possible takeover of Alpine’s Hypercar program in the FIA WEC (World Endurance Championship) by the Chinese giant BYD have intensified significantly in recent days.
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On the sidelines of the 6 Hours of Spa, the second WEC event this weekend, several sources confirm that this solution now appears as the only real option to ensure the continuity of the A424 program.
A prospect that nevertheless raises some internal concerns, particularly around the potential transfer of sensitive technical data and the know-how developed by the French engineers.
Viry under Chinese control?
According to the information mentioned, BYD would not be content with taking over the Hypercar program under its own name: the Chinese manufacturer would also take over Hypertech Alpine, the Viry-Châtillon technical center historically linked to Alpine and Renault’s engine activities in competition.
The operation is being considered for 2028, although an acceleration of the timeline could lead to a takeover as early as next season. Faced with this still unclear situation, several drivers have already started to probe rival teams. Similar movements are also being observed among some technical and operational staff members.
BYD would also represent only one element of a broader Chinese offensive in international motorsport. Exeed is also preparing an entry into the WEC in the coming years, while Lynk & Co, already involved in TCR, is studying a prototype program. Finally, Great Wall Motor has recently unveiled a GT3 development project.
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Related to F1
Recently, confirmed reports by BYD management mentioned more of an interest in Formula 1, either with a view to creating a twelfth team or by buying an existing team, with the names Alpine (already) and Williams being cited.
BYD’s vice president, Stella Li, publicly confirmed the existence of exchanges with the discipline’s management, notably with F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali. Meetings have already taken place at the Shanghai Auto Show, proof of concrete dialogue between the two parties, further fueled during the recent Chinese Grand Prix.
“We met Stefano Domenicali in Shanghai. We have a warm relationship and remain in regular contact” explained Stella Li.
Which obviously does not prevent BYD from also evaluating an engagement on the endurance scene through this rapprochement with the Signatech Alpine team, an option probably much less expensive than the F1 entry ticket price even if one would not necessarily exclude the other.
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