Things are never dull in Formula 1. Just as the sport was gearing up for a break after races in Austria and Britain, unexpected news hit the headlines. Daniel Ricciardo, after just ten races, was making a surprising comeback to the grid with AlphaTauri. This loan deal, set to start at the Hungarian Grand Prix, shook up the F1 world during what was expected to be a quiet period.
Yet, while attention may have been drawn to Ricciardo’s return, it’s crucial to take stock of each team’s position ahead of the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix. Evaluating the teams from the bottom of the Constructors’ standings to the top, we delve into the most pressing question facing each team. Today, let’s focus on Alpine.
The primary query surrounding Alpine revolves around their ability to find consistency. However, one could argue that it’s not just consistency they seek, but a stroke of good luck as well. Throughout this season, bad luck seemed to have haunted the team on multiple occasions. Remember the Australian Grand Prix? Both Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon were running in points contention when a late-race restart led to a collision, ending their hopes of a strong finish.
The recent British Grand Prix was another unfortunate instance, with Ocon retiring early due to a failure, and Gasly forced to retire after a collision damaged his suspension. Compounding matters, McLaren managed their best weekend yet and overtook Alpine in the Constructors’ Standings.
Adding to their struggle is the backdrop of new Hollywood owners and CEO Laurent Rossi’s vocal dissatisfaction with the team’s performance. Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, Rossi publicly criticized the team’s results, expressing disappointment in their standings, despite the resources invested. He demanded progress, stressing the importance of turning the team around and achieving podium finishes.
While Alpine did secure a podium with Ocon’s third-place finish at Monaco, it was not the consistent performance they strive for. The disastrous outcome at Silverstone further emphasized the need for improvements. Recently, a managerial shuffle followed and Bruno Famin, formerly the F1 engine chief, assumed a new role as VP of Alpine Motorsports. Famin’s transition underscores the team’s commitment to success not only in F1 but also in developing the brand’s road cars, expanding to new territories, and competing in endurance events.
However, the journey to success won’t be easy. Famin acknowledges that Alpine aims to fight for wins and titles in both F1 and endurance racing. The team’s updates and adjustments reflect a holistic approach to enhance efficiency and increase the likelihood of achieving their goals.
Though a stroke of luck may assist their cause, Alpine understands the importance of creating their own fortune, as often seen in the world of sports. Amidst the challenges, they will continue to push for improvement, aiming to secure a more favorable position in the Constructors’ Standings.
Alpine’s pursuit of consistency and luck is driven by their relentless commitment to achieving the best possible results. The journey may be arduous, but with the team’s determination and renewed focus, they are primed to make significant strides in the competitive world of Formula 1.
The post “Alpine F1: The Quest for Consistency and Luck” first appeared on the European News Global.
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