Alpine interim team principal Bruno Famin has revealed why Otmar Szafnauer and Alan Permane were let go by the Formula 1 team.
Famin faced the media at Spa-Francorchamps after the announcement was made on Friday that they would both be leaving after the Belgian GP, along with Pat Fry.
According to Famin, it was a mutual decision to make the drastic changes mid-season, as the personal timelines of the team and departing staff did not align.
“With Otmar and Alan, we thank them for all they brought to the team,” Famin told the media at the Belgian GP.
“We were not on the same timeline for us to recover or the level of performance we are aiming for. So, mutually we agreed to split and that’s it.”
Eyeing titles
Alpine have regressed from 2022 when they finished fourth in the constructors’ standings as they now lie sixth halfway through 2023.
Famin reiterated that the French manufacturer, based in the UK, is still aiming for race wins and world titles in the future despite falling behind Aston Martin and McLaren in the pecking order.
“The expectations are to be able to fight for wins and titles as soon as possible,” Famin added. “Of course, it could take a long time but everyone has that same objective.
“I don’t think the engine is so down but it’s not the best engine on the grid for sure. We made huge steps between 2021 and 2022 but it’s still not the best. The FIA has put the topic on the table but that’s it.”
