No one cares concerning the engine at the back of the automotive, insists Flavio Briatore as Alpine prepares to change to Mercedes energy models.
The season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked the 228th occasion for the reason that introduction of the hybrid components in 2014. In that point Mercedes has gained 124 races (54.4%), Honda/RBPT 64 (28.1%), Ferrari 23 (10.1%) and Renault 17 (7.5%).
Regardless of being one of many primary driving forces behind the introduction of the hybrid components, the French producer, over time a real innovator in issues motorsport, has failed miserably. A lot in order that from 2026, what is actually its personal works crew, will use engines provided by a rival producer.
Flavio Briatore, who oversaw title success with Benetton and Renault was introduced again into the fold by Renault Groupe CEO Luca de Meo, charged with bringing success again to the crew, and one in all his first strikes was the shock announcement to drop the French producer’s personal engines.
“The French need to win,” he tells Auto Motor und Sport. “We do not win with our engine. It is so simple as that.
“If we need to win, we’ve to surrender the areas through which we aren’t aggressive,” he provides. “That is one much less downside for us to fret about sooner or later. Let’s focus on the automotive.”
Regardless of successive titles with Renault, as quickly because it grew to become clear that the French producer had made a significant flawed flip by way of the hybrid models the connection with Pink Bull soured quickly, the Austrian outfit determined to seek out another provider. Nonetheless, with Mercedes out of the query it will definitely fashioned a partnership with Honda following a trial season utilizing Alpha Tauri.
Citing McLaren’s title success this yr, Briatore believes that the majority followers are unconcerned at what engine a crew is utilizing.
“McLaren turns into world champion with a Mercedes engine,” he says. “What number of occasions have you ever learn or heard about McLaren-Mercedes turning into world champions? By no means!
“Haas is Haas and never Haas-Ferrari,” he provides.
As for continued hypothesis over the crew’s future and the potential for it being offered, he says: “I do not perceive all this hypothesis. Since I joined Renault, the identical questions have at all times been requested. Once we gained the world championship title in 2005 and 2006, I used to be requested whether or not Renault wished to remain in System 1.
“The reality is, I at all times obtained what I wanted for the job from Renault,” he continues. “They recognize that I’m cautious with their cash. I imagine in effectivity. That is why I am now saving cash all over the place within the areas that do not make my automotive sooner.
“I do not take into consideration what I will be doing in 5, 10 or 20 years’ time. I resolve what’s necessary now.”
