”Become the French Ferrari”: Despite Mattia Binotto’s Dismal Track Record, Renault CEO Makes Shocking Demand

We’re well into the summer break and the F1 silly season hasn’t quite started off as we would have expected. But there’s no cause for concern as Alpine may become the trendsetter for explosive transfer news coming the fans’ way. With Otmar Szafnauer shown the exit doors at the French team, rumors are that a certain Italian man is in pole position to help them emulate the greatness only one team has achieved so far in this sport; Ferrari.

There is a big change afoot at the Enstone-based team after a multi-million dollar deal courtesy of Hollywood hotshot Ryan Reynolds has propelled ambitions. Ex-Ferrari team principal, Mattia Binotto is rumored to become the next head of Alpine. But given his erratic and oftentimes downright embarrassing track record with the Scuderia, why has Renault CEO Luca de Meo chosen him as their savior?

Is Alpine suffering from tunnel vision?

Alpine has been bestowed with a punchy budget ever since this newfound infusion of funds. But if de Meo’s words are anything to go by, it would appear that the team now has only one goal in mind and that is what has made them consider Binotto for the job.

Luca de Meo told Sky Sports, “The Alpine Formula 1 team must become the French Ferrari. In France, there is still too little passion for motorsport, and this is because the fans do not have a symbol to cheer for, as is the case in Italy with Ferrari.” [translated via Google]

For the moment, reports linking Binotto with Alpine are nothing but just rumors. However, that hasn’t stopped F1 pundits from speculating on the potential future of the fallen French giants.

Read More: $3,000,000 Contract Refrains Mattia Binotto to Succeed Otmar Szafnauer at Alpine Despite Agreement With Renault

F1 legend gives his verdict on ex-Ferrari man Binotto

There is no doubt that Binotto is a highly regarded member of the paddock. That being said, his stint in the hot seat of the Maranello-based outfit hasn’t done any favors to his reputation. Nonetheless, is he the right choice for Alpine given their ambitious goals?

F1 legend, Martin Brundle explained, “Obviously, it didn’t work out for him at Ferrari otherwise he’d still be there. But I wouldn’t be surprised if that was announced, no.”

Is Mattia Binotto the right man to lead Alpine back to their championship-winning glory days?

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