The motorsport industry is attractive on many levels and its peak division is none other than Formula 1. They have bagged in many car makers over the years including Audi, marking their debut with the 2026 season, and have eyes on the current drivers on the grid. The possibility of Andretti-Cadillac, an American team partnering with an upcoming automaker, appears to be a tempting addition to the sport.
In the meanwhile, Helmut Marko of Red Bull makes the suggestion that Andretti should consider acquiring the Alpine team, which happens to be presently controlled by Renault and is in a managerial mess. According to Marko, such a move would be favorable to all parties, sustaining the present lineup of 10 Formula 1 teams while giving Andretti the wanted front door. Furthermore, Renault can still maintain its involvement in the sport.
Helmut Marko has suggested that Andretti should buy the Alpine F1 team
“Andretti should buy the Alpine team,”
“That would be best for everyone. Formula 1 would keep its 10 teams, Andretti could finally get in and Renault can still be involved.”
[@SPORT1] #F1 pic.twitter.com/ELVXWWTbvK
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) August 7, 2023
Michael Andretti, the former driver, and owner of Andretti Autosport, has stated that he has tried pursuing every team on the grid for a merger, but none has shown any desire. This revelation comes amidst the ongoing management crisis at the Enstone-based Alpine. Despite this turmoil, Renault’s group CEO, Luca de Meo, remains firm in their commitment to Formula 1.
What is happening with Alpine?
Marcin Budkowski, a former Alpine team principal, disclosed an important issue that Renault’s F1 project faces, which is basically lofty objectives without sufficient resources to back them. Since the team debuted Formula 1 in 2016 with a five-year plan of action, its rocky road has been one important aspect of its existence. Since an unexpected win in 2021, but this season, their overall record hasn’t been up to par after the podium finish by Esteban Ocon in the Monaco Grand Prix.
This move 😮💨💯#Alpine #BelgianGPpic.twitter.com/Pn08hGJjMl
— BWT Alpine F1 Team (@AlpineF1Team) August 2, 2023
In contrast, rivals such as McLaren and Aston Martin have gone ahead in their game and had abrupt departures of Otmar Szafneur, Laurent Rossi, and Alain Permaine. Budkowski confessed that his views and those of Alain Prost had been in sync but stressed the need for adjustments in light of recent events. The key concern Alpine is currently facing is if Renault would admit its need for substantial cash investments for longevity in Formula 1.
Renault has undergone multiple cycles of similar strategies but unfortunately, they failed on achieving the kind of results that were anticipated. Clearly, it’s past due for the team to gain a better understanding of what needs to be done to meet its objectives. Given the seriousness of this particular situation, Renault’s upcoming choices and actions will surely be fascinating to witness.