Alpine F1 staff to strike at Italian GP over engine issue

Renault F1 staff prepare to stage a protest against the potential withdrawal of the manufacturer's power unit program.

This move comes in response to a proposal that could see Alpine transition from a works team to a customer outfit, fundamentally altering its position within the sport.

Viry-Châtillon staff take a stand

At the heart of this unfolding situation is the Viry-Châtillon engine base, where Renault has been developing its Formula 1 power units.

The proposal to shift this facility's focus onto other Groupe Renault activities has sparked a fierce reaction from employees, who are now planning a two-pronged protest action.

On Friday, August 30, 100 employees will make their presence felt at Monza.

Split between grandstands N4 and N24, these staff members will display a banner advocating for Renault's continued presence in Formula 1's engine supply landscape.

Their message will be further amplified by white shirts bearing the Alpine logo and the hashtag '#ViryOnTrack'.

Meanwhile, back at the Viry-Châtillon base, the majority of staff will engage in strike action, demonstrating solidarity with their colleagues at the circuit.

Impact on the paddock

The protest is designed to be visually impactful without disrupting Alpine's on-track activities.

Staff members, including those in the Alpine garage where possible, will wear black armbands as a symbol of their cause.

This careful balancing act aims to highlight the employees' concerns while ensuring the team's Italian Grand Prix weekend proceeds without operational hindrance.

The bigger picture: Alpine's F1 future

Should Renault follow through with its proposal, Alpine's status in Formula 1would shift dramatically.

The team currently enjoys the advantages of being a works outfit, with in-house engine development aligning closely with chassis design.

A transition to customer status would see Alpine sourcing its power units externally, with Mercedes emerging as the frontrunner to supply the team from the 2026 season onwards.

This potential change comes at a crucial juncture in Formula 1's technical regulations, with new power unit rules set to be introduced in 2026.

The timing adds another layer of complexity to Alpine's strategic decisions and long-term planning.

Gasly's Perspective

When questioned about the planned protests, Alpine driver Pierre Gasly offered a measured response, highlighting the delicate nature of the situation:

"The way I look at it is I have absolutely no power or control over that situation. It's a team and top management topic,"

Gasly stated.

"So from this point of view, I'm focusing on my race, and the best thing I can do to every employee of the team is perform the best way I can on the track."

Gasly's comments underscore the challenging position drivers find themselves in during such corporate upheavals, balancing team loyalty with personal performance objectives.