Renault F1 team to be rebranded Alpine F1 in 2021

As expected, Renault will rebrand its Formula 1 outfit Alpine F1 from 2021, reviving a legendary symbol of sporting prowess and French excellence for the manufacturer.

The Enstone squad will race in blue from next season, rekindling Alpine's sporting legacy, born in the 1950s and built mainly in the rally and sportscar arenas.

"Alpine is a beautiful brand, powerful and vibrant, that brings a smile to the faces of its followers," said Groupe Renault 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.

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"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."

Speaking in a media conference on Sunday, de Meo said the Renault name would remain on next year's cars as the Alpine team's engine provider.

"It's a big change because Renault has been around for 43 years,” said de Meo. "It will stay on the car but as an engine provider, so it will be visible.

"We will use F1 as a platform to market a brand that we want to develop in the house. Even if Renault is a glorious brand, the fit of Alpine in the F1 world will be even better."

Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul who has been entrusted with the "creation, organization and implementation" of the Alpine brand says the change comes at the right time for the French manufacturer.

"This change comes at a key moment in the trajectory of the team and the sport," explained Abiteboul.

"Alpine brings a new meaning, new values and colours to the paddock with the spirit of competition from other worlds and French creative agility. These will be assets in the preparation of 2022 deadlines.

"The new regulatory and financial framework will establish the conditions for a fairer motor sport in its redistribution of revenues; simpler and progressive in its governance.

"The implementation of the "budget cap" will put an end to the expense race and will allow the signatory teams to be measured for their sporting value. Alpine has its place in Formula 1 and can challenge for victory."

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