Alpine's troubled start to its 2024 Formula 1 season has worsened with the news in Bahrain that two key technical figures have resigned from the Enstone squad.
Technical Director Matt Harman and Head of Aerodynamics Dirk de Beer are both set to leave Alpine, leaving a major void to be filled.
Reports suggest that the resignations occurred last month, even before the presentation of the team’s 2024 car.
It is understood however that Harman – who was present this weekend in Bahrain – and de Beer will remain in their respective roles until they serve out their notice period which extends until April.
Alpine’s management has so far remained silent on the matter, refusing to officially confirm or deny the resignations, a lack of transparency that only fuels speculation regarding the reasons behind the departures.
The latest disruption has come amid a mediocre start to Alpine’s 2024 campaign, with Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly qualifying at the back of the grid in Bahrain and concluding their race on Saturday a lowly P17 and P18.
Alpine’s performance woes were already apparent last week during pre-season testing in Bahrain, where the A524’s weaknesses were evident from day 1.
Excessive weight and a crucial lack of aero efficiency have been cited as the two main factors weighing on the new design’s performance.
However, Alpine team boss Bruno Famin is convinced that unity will prevail as well as the outfit’s ability to improve its fortunes through a comprehensive upgrade programme.
"We knew the start of the season was going to be difficult and that has been the case in Bahrain," Famin said.
"That said, we are doing everything we can with what we have right now and we will keep finding improvements and making progress each time we are on track.
"Credit to the team and the drivers for their efforts here in Bahrain over the last couple of weeks. The togetherness of the team will shine through.
"Next week we go to Jeddah, a completely different track to Bahrain, which brings a new opportunity to keep learning and progressing our A524 package. The hard work will continue."
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