Renault has a new CEO and has already put pressure on Alpine: 'We need to improve.'

The Alpine team, which is experiencing a turbulent season with changes in drivers and management, has added a new chapter to its restructuring.  Groupe Renault has introduced François Provost as the new CEO, replacing Luca de Meo, one of the driving forces behind Franco Colapinto's arrival to the team.

In his first public appearance in the role, Provost made it clear what the priorities will be: "The only priority for a Formula 1 team is performance and improving it. We need to improve performance in 2025, but especially in 2026, with the new regulations," he stated, signaling a shift in mentality and results in the short and medium term.

Pressure on Briatore and changes in management

Provost's message is interpreted as a direct warning to Flavio Briatore, Alpine's highest authority since Oliver Oakes's departure. The Italian, questioned for this season's poor results, faces a tense internal atmosphere and growing criticism from fans.

To get back on track, Steve Nielsen will take over as general manager in the coming weeks, with the mission of reorganizing the work and seeking improvements in the second half of the Formula 1 calendar.

Drivers and continuity

At least for now, no further changes are expected in Alpine's structure. Everything indicates that Franco Colapinto will keep his seat until the end of the season, while Pierre Gasly will fulfill the contract he recently renewed.

In a year marked by instability and changes,  Provost's arrival opens a new chapter for Alpine, which will try to leave behind poor results and prepare the ground for the 2026 season, where the new technical regulations promise a major challenge for all teams.