Angry Alpine employees announce protest during Monza race weekend

Alpine employees are angry that a Renault engine will not be used in 2026. For this reason, there will be protests in the grandstands on the Friday before the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

For some time now, rumours have been circulating that Alpine may no longer run with a Renault engine from 2026. Attempts have reportedly already been made to strike a deal with Mercedes, although these attempts have not yet been successful.

Renault has a rich history in Formula 1, with past success. Red Bull Racing, for instance, became world champion four times between 2010 and 2013 with a Renault engine. They also had World Championship success with Williams, Benetton and under their own team name with Fernando Alonso in 2005 and 2006. If Alpine decides to strike a deal with another engine supplier, it would put an end to Renault in Formula 1.

Alpine protest in Monza

Employees want to prevent that from happening. They complain: "This project runs the risk that many engineers and technicians, who are considered the elite in their field, will leave France to continue their activities in Formula 1. In addition, the contracts of around 100 service providers will come to an end."

Banners will be on display with non-aggressive messages. In addition, employees will all wear a white T-shirt with an Alpine logo, the message #ViryOnTrack [Viry-Châtillon is the location where the engine is being built] and a black armband will be worn. No things will be done that disrupt sessions. Many of the staff who could not come to Monza are also joining the protest. They will also respectfully show signs of discontent.

This article has been written in collaboration with Matt Gretton