Bruno Famin shares what Alpine have told staff representatives amid factory strike threat

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The future of Alpine has been a hot topic in Formula 1 following the news that Renault is set to exit as an engine manufacturer.

Former team principal Bruno Famin confirmed over the Belgian Grand Prix weekend that Renault will be ceasing production of its F1 power units from 2026, while simultaneously announcing his departure from his role to make way for Oliver Oakes.

Renault only supplies engines to its in-house Alpine F1 team, having previously partnered with McLaren and Red Bull during the hybrid era.

The French manufacturer has struggled to match its rivals Mercedes, Ferrari and Honda, with its current power unit operating at a significant horsepower deficit.

Senior management at Renault has now decided to shelve the operation at Viry Chatillon, however following fears that staff could strike over a proposed deal with Mercedes, Famin has responded to speculation when speaking on the Beyond the Grid F1 podcast.

Bruno Famin responds to Alpine engine speculation

Alpine is reportedly looking into a technical partnership with Mercedes as their power unit, gearbox and suspension supplier for the future, starting as early as 2025.

Their new advisor Flavio Briatore was spotted in the Mercedes motorhome several times during the Hungarian Grand Prix, as they look to secure a deal for the future.

READ MORE: Everything to know about Alpine’s F1 executive adviser Flavio Briatore

It later emerged that staff at Viry Chatillon were unhappy with the development, with an anonymous employee telling French publication L’Equipe that ‘we might not start the cars’.

Famin clarified Alpine’s position on the proposed deal and asked whether they plan to ditch their current engines for next season.

“Everything which has been presented to the staff representatives and to the different governance bodies are talking about 2026,” said Famin.

A new F1 team could replace Alpine

After Alpine confirmed that former Hietch F2 boss Oakes would be replacing Famin as team principal after the summer break, it led to speculation that the F1 feeder series could take over the French team.

The Briton unsuccessfully applied for a future place on the F1 grid via the FIA’s expression of interest process, with further talk that Hietch could buy Alpine ahead of the 2026 season.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Alpine F1 Team from team principal to lineage

General Motors is also reportedly interested in taking over Renault’s F1 engine project, which could help Andretti’s chances of being granted an early entry onto the grid as an 11th entity for 2026.

Alpine is currently in a battle with Haas and RB for the final 10 races, having achieved a positive ninth place for Esteban Ocon at the Belgian GP.