Renault F1 Team has rebranded to Alpine F1 Team for the upcoming 2021 campaign in an attempt to ‘accelerate the development and influence’ of the French sports car manufacturer.
Alpine has a long association with the automobile firm, with Renault purchasing the company in 1973. Despite the F1 team rebranding, Renault will continue to participate as a manufacturer in the FIA F1 World Championship albeit under a new name, logo and colour scheme.
Luca De Meo, C.E.O. Groupe Renault commented: “Alpine is a beautiful brand, powerful and vibrant, that brings a smile to the faces of its followers. By introducing Alpine, a symbol of French excellence, to the most prestigious of the world’s automotive disciplines, we are continuing the adventure of manufacturers in a renewed sport.
“We are bringing a dream brand alongside the biggest names, for spectacular car races made and followed by enthusiasts. Alpine will also bring its values to the F1 paddock: elegance, ingenuity and audacity.”
The rebranding comes after all 10 F1 teams signed the new Concorde agreement which includes the capping of budgets, the implementation of new technical regulations and the structure for revenue distribution from 2022. According to Renault F1 Team, the signing of the agreement signals the manufacturer’s intent to ‘return to the podium and win under its new colours’.
Cyril Abiteboul, Team Principal Renault DP World F1 Team added: “This change comes at a key moment in the trajectory of the team and the sport. Alpine brings a new meaning, new values and colours to the paddock with the spirit of competition from other worlds and French creative agility.
“These will be assets in the preparation of 2022 deadlines. The new regulatory and financial framework will establish the conditions for a fairer motor sport in its redistribution of revenues; simpler and progressive in its governance.
“The implementation of the “budget cap” will put an end to the expense race and will allow the signatory teams to be measured for their sporting value. Alpine has its place in Formula 1 and can challenge for victory.”
This isn’t Alpine’s first foray into competitive motorsport with the brand also competing in rally and the FIA World Endurance Championship.