Renault to rebrand to Alpine F1 team for 2021

Renault has announced plans to rebrand to the Alpine Formula 1 team for the 2021 season.

The renaming of the F1 team comes as part of a restructuring of its organisation and marketing strategy to promote the Alpine brand.

From 2021, the team will be formally titled the ‘Alpine F1 Team' powered by Renault E-Tech engines. It will race with a new livery featuring the blue, red and white of the French tricolure. 

“Alpine is a beautiful brand, powerful and vibrant, that brings a smile to the faces of its followers,” said new CEO Luca de Meo.

“By introducing Alpine, a symbol of French excellence, to the most prestigious of the world’s automotive disciplines, we are continuing the adventure of manufacturers in a renewed sport. 

“We are bringing a dream brand alongside the biggest names, for spectacular car races made and followed by enthusiasts. Alpine will also bring its values to the F1 paddock: elegance, ingenuity, and audacity.”

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Cyril Abiteboul is being put in charge of the Alpine division alongside his duties as Renault F1 team boss.

The rebranding of the Renault F1 team marks the latest change to the French manufacturer’s identity, which has raced under the Renault name since it returned to the sport as a fully-fledged works outfit in 2016.

The Enstone-based outfit previously raced under the Toleman and Benetton na,mes until rebranding as Renault for the 2002 season.

Following a scale back in Renault’s F1 involvement, the team became Lotus GP before Renault Sport returned in 2016.

Double world champion Fernando Alonso will return to the team for 2021 for his third stint at the squad he claimed his two world titles with in 2005 and 2006.

He will replace the McLaren-bound Daniel Ricciardo to partner Esteban Ocon.