Alpine's outgoing team boss asserts that the Formula 1 team, currently facing turmoil, is not being groomed for a sale.
Despite the new 2026 regulations designed to attract more automakers like Audi, the Renault-owned Alpine seems poised to abandon its in-house engine development.
The company is yet to announce the cessation of its F1 engine operations at Viry-Chattilon due to stringent French labor regulations and the power of unions.
This has stalled advanced discussions with prospective engine providers, with Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains emerging as likely partners.
"We are talking to some PU manufacturers," Bruno Famin stated in Belgium, "but we cannot sign anything until this process is over."
Post the upcoming August break, Famin will step down to focus on Viry's pivot away from Formula 1 pursuits.
His replacement will be named "in due course," with Oliver Oakes of the Formula 2 outfit Hitech being the top contender.
Famin refutes any significant disagreements with the newly appointed team advisor, Flavio Briatore.
"I have no problem with Flavio," he noted at Spa-Francorchamps. "The little time we spend together, I have absolutely no issue, no problem. He has his own way."
"But I think it will be clearer on that side if I step down from the team principal role."
Securing a new team leader swiftly remains a priority. "Everybody in Enstone needs to know what (engine) to design the 2026 car for," he mentioned.
Nevertheless, he countered any suggestions that the current upheavals are leading up to a sale.
"No," Famin asserted. "The Formula 1 project remains a key project for the Alpine brand. It's thanks to Formula 1 that we want to develop the brand awareness globally."
Meanwhile, whispers in Hungary suggest that General Motors might acquire the intellectual property of Renault's 2026 engine project, which may otherwise remain untested on the tracks.
"The job which is being done in Viry to prepare the 2026 engine is incredible," Famin praised. "We fixed a very high target and I am confident that we can reach it. The figures we have from the dyno are very good. All the people are very involved, very professional, very skilled."
While Renault earlier committed to the FIA to continue as an engine supplier until 2030, it seems unlikely the governing body will enforce any penalties.
Should Hitech's Oliver Oakes become the next Alpine boss, he could be planning to team Pierre Gasly with F2 rising star Paul Aron, rather than Jack Doohan next season.
