Money brings change. In Alpine F1’s case, the mega Ryan Reynolds-led investment has already started having its effects. The investment led by a consortium of investors, including the Deadpool star, has infused a whopping $218,000,000 into the Enstone-based team in return for a 24% stake. But as the wheels of change move Alpine forwards, it has forced its incumbent linchpin in moving sideways instead.
That’s right, Alpine CEO, Laurent Rossi, has been relieved of his duties. The French-born was a key part of making sure Alpine move back up the grid as they were in their glory days as Renault. However, as Reynolds stepped in, Rossi has been asked to move aside.
Laurent Rossi makes way for Ferrari’s chief
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According to Autosport.com, “Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi, who held overarching responsibility for the Renault Group’s Formula 1 team, has been moved aside.” But then who steps into his shoes to replace him?
Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi, who held overarching responsibility for the Renault Group's #F1 team, has been moved aside ⬇️https://t.co/LQPiHO9kbI
— Autosport (@autosport) July 20, 2023
Reports suggest that, “Former Alfa Romeo technical director and Ferrari engineering boss Philippe Krief, who joined Alpine in early March, has been appointed as Rossi’s successor.” And what’s next for Rossi? “Rossi will now focus on special projects linked to the transformation of the Group.”
While Rossi himself has not commented on the news yet, Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo has.
Parting thanks to the Alpine chief
Rossi did the best he could. And arguably, with the team now solidified in the midfield, the only way for the Enstone-based team is up. That being said, with a bevy of poor results in the last few races, how did de Meo bid Rossi farewell, from this current role.
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🚨 OFFICIEL !!
Philippe Krief est nommé CEO de la marque Alpine et succède donc à Laurent Rossi à partir d'aujourd'hui ! 🔁
Alpine annonce que "Laurent Rossi se consacrera désormais à des projets spéciaux liés à la transformation du Groupe".
🎙️ Luca de Meo : "Je tiens à… pic.twitter.com/a7R9tkfk0u
— Off Track (@OffTrack_FR) July 20, 2023
He said, “I would like to thank Laurent for his unwavering commitment over the last two years at the helm of Alpine. Laurent has set out a clear and ambitious strategy for the brand. He has put Alpine in the best possible position to achieve its long-term goals. Alpine is now ready to enter a new phase of its development and to become a brand of the future. take Alpine to new heights,” as quoted by Motorsport.com
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Can Alpine finally break into the top 3 with Krief at the helm?