From Vasseur to Briatore: The Turbulent History of Alpine/Renault with 7 Team Principals in 9 Years
The world of Formula 1 has been shaken once again by the abrupt change in leadership at Alpine, formerly Renault. This move marks the latest episode in a tumultuous saga of shifting power dynamics within the renowned ‘team Enstone’ over the past decade. Since Renault’s decision to re-enter the realm of Formula 1 in 2016, a staggering seven different team principals have taken the helm, illustrating a staggering lack of stability at the top. With only nine podium finishes and a single victory in almost a decade, it’s clear that the team has been grappling with internal turmoil and struggles to find its footing in the competitive landscape of F1.
The initial era was led by Fred Vasseur, the current head of the Ferrari team, who navigated Renault’s return to F1, culminating in a challenging debut season that placed them ninth among Constructors with a mere 8 points. However, discord within the team led to Vasseur’s departure in January 2017, paving the way for Jérôme Stoll and later Cyril Abiteboul to assume leadership roles. Abiteboul’s tenure saw a modicum of success, with the team experiencing a resurgence highlighted by three podium finishes in the Covid-impacted 2020 season. Despite his efforts, Abiteboul parted ways with the team in January 2021, coinciding with the rebranding to Alpine and Daniel Ricciardo’s departure to McLaren.
The revolving door of leadership at Alpine/Renault raises questions about the team’s ability to establish a sustainable and successful trajectory in the cutthroat world of Formula 1. As fans and critics alike speculate on the implications of this latest shakeup, one thing remains certain – the only constant in this team’s history is change. Will the appointment of Briatore bring about a new era of stability and triumph, or is Alpine destined to remain mired in uncertainty and upheaval? Only time will tell in this high-octane drama unfolding on the F1 stage.
