Prost 'very disappointed' with disrespectful Alpine

Former Alpine non-executive director Alain Prost has confirmed his split with the French manufacturer but says he's "very disappointed" with how the news was released.

A report was published on Monday on the official Formula1.com website stating that Alpine had parted ways with the four-time F1 champion after choosing not to renew Prost's annual directorship and advisory role agreement with the Enstone squad.

But Prost fired back at Alpine on Monday evening, claiming in a post on Instagram that he had declined an offer from his former employer that had been submitted to him at last month's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Read also: Prost departs Alpine as management shake-up unfolds

"I am very disappointed how this news has been announced today," Prost wrote.

"It was agreed that we would announce together with @alpinef1team! No respect sorry!

"I have refused the offer made to me in Abu Dhabi for the 2022 season because of a personal relationship and I was right!

"To the Enstone and Viry team, I will miss you."

Prost's exit is the second management shake-up in a week decided by Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi and follows the departure of the team's executive director Marcin Budkowski.

The changes leave a void at the team that former Aston Martin F1 CEO Otmar Szfanauer is expected to fill in the near future.

The American's anticipated move to Enstone is expected to be accompanied by a sponsorship deal between Alpine and former Racing Point/Aston Martin sponsor BWT.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.