When the name Alpine returned to Formula 1 in 2021, many assumed it was a brand-new player entering the high-octane world of elite racing. In truth, Alpine’s journey through the F1 paddock is deeply rooted in a legacy of French motorsport ambition, innovation, and rebirth.
A Racing Spirit Born in the Mountains
The Alpine name dates back to 1955, when Jean Rédélé, a young Frenchman passionate about lightweight sports cars, founded the company in Dieppe, Normandy. His dream was simple: create cars that were agile, elegant, and born for competition. Alpine quickly gained a cult following, dominating rally stages in the 1960s and 70s with models like the iconic A110.
Though Alpine’s success in rallying was undeniable, Formula 1 remained an elusive frontier—until Renault entered the picture.
Renault’s F1 Legacy: The Foundation Beneath the Blue
Renault began its F1 journey in 1977, pioneering turbocharged engines and achieving notable success, including two Constructors’ Championships and two Drivers’ Championships with Fernando Alonso in 2005 and 2006. Over the years, the Renault F1 Team underwent several transformations—Team Enstone, Benetton, Lotus—but the French manufacturer remained a constant force behind the scenes.
In 2021, Renault rebranded its F1 team under the Alpine name, merging its performance heritage with its automotive ambitions. It wasn’t just a cosmetic change—it was a cultural reset.
Alpine F1 Team: A Bold New Chapter
The rebranded Alpine F1 Team made its debut at the 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix with a striking blue, white, and red livery symbolizing its French roots. Behind the wheel were Esteban Ocon and the returning legend Fernando Alonso, a nostalgic nod to Renault’s golden years.
That season, Alpine stunned the paddock with a sensational victory in Hungary, where Ocon secured his maiden F1 win amidst chaos and carnage—marking Alpine’s first victory as a constructor. It was a statement: Alpine wasn’t here just to participate—it came to win.
Beyond the Podium: A Brand Reimagined
Alpine’s foray into Formula 1 isn’t just about racing; it’s about redefining the brand globally. By positioning itself as Renault’s premium performance marque, Alpine aims to elevate its status in both motorsport and road car innovation.
The F1 team has become a cornerstone of this identity, showcasing cutting-edge technology, engineering prowess, and a fearless approach to racing. Off the track, Alpine has released new versions of its A110 sports car, blending F1-inspired performance with everyday driveability.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Promises
Like every team in Formula 1, Alpine faces stiff competition. The goal? Fighting consistently for podiums, challenging the top teams, and one day—maybe soon—becoming title contenders. With a state-of-the-art factory in Enstone and strong technical partnerships, the building blocks are in place.
Alpine is not just racing for points—it’s racing to prove that a brand born in the shadows of the Alps can reach the summit of Formula 1.
