Renault sells F1 engine department

Renault has agreed to sell its Viry-Châtillon engine department, a key site where many Formula 1 engines were designed, to the Belgian engineering group Dumarey. This move is part of Renault’s broader strategy to step back from supplying power units to Formula 1 teams.

Sale details and conditions

The French automaker announced it has reached an agreement with Dumarey for the sale of Alpine Racing SAS, including the employees and assets necessary for the operation of the facilities. However, the transaction is pending approval from employee representatives and regulatory authorities.

End of Renault's F1 engine program

This decision follows the conclusion of Renault’s Formula 1 engine development program, which marked the end of several decades of direct involvement in the sport. Since the start of the 2026 season, Alpine has been using Mercedes power units, signaling the end of Renault's role as an independent engine supplier.

Dumarey's plans for the acquisition

For Dumarey, acquiring the Viry-Châtillon site represents an opportunity to expand its expertise in automotive engineering and motorsport technologies. The Belgian group aims to maintain the site’s workforce and technical know-how while exploring new opportunities in the racing sector.

Future of French F1 expertise

Renault suggests that the sale might allow the Viry-Châtillon expertise to return to Formula 1 in the future, potentially through technical support for other teams. This does not necessarily mean the end of French involvement in the sport’s engineering aspects.

Alpine's struggles in 2026

Alpine is currently facing challenges in the 2026 Formula 1 season. After a series of underwhelming performances, driver Franco Colapinto has called for a complete overhaul of the team to regain competitiveness, a sentiment echoed by his teammate Pierre Gasly.

Technical challenges for Alpine

Gasly noted that Alpine is experiencing greater difficulties during races than in qualifying sessions. He pointed out that certain issues with the car are not easily fixable and that the gap between the top teams and the rest of the field has widened significantly.