**Renault to End F1 Engine Program Ahead of 2026 Rule Changes**

Renault, the notable French car manufacturer, has officially announced that it will cease its efforts in Formula 1 engine development as the sport prepares for a new set of regulations in 2026. This decision follows months of speculation and ongoing discussions about Renault's future in F1, particularly given Alpine's negotiations with Mercedes for a potential customer power unit deal.

In a statement released Monday, the company disclosed that its F1 engine factory at Viry-Châtillon, near Paris, will be transformed into the Hypertech Alpine Centre, an engineering hub focused on advancing technology for future Renault and Alpine vehicles. This shift confirms that no new engines for the 2026 F1 season will be developed at the site. Despite this, the Viry facility will continue to supply its current turbo-hybrid engines to Alpine until the end of the 2025 season.

The Hypertech Alpine Centre will prioritize projects such as developing a new Alpine Supercar, advancing battery technology, and conducting research and development on electric motor technologies. Additionally, the Viry site will continue to support Renault's other motorsport activities, including Alpine's World Endurance Championship program, Formula E, and Rally Raid efforts for partner brands.

Although Renault is stepping back from F1 engine development, Alpine intends to maintain a presence in the sport by forming an F1 monitoring unit. This unit will help retain the knowledge and skills of Viry employees, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of innovation. Alpine has guaranteed jobs for all current staff at Viry, signaling a commitment to employee security amidst the transition.

Philippe Krief, CEO of Alpine, emphasized the strategic importance of creating the Hypertech Alpine Centre, highlighting it as a critical component of Alpine's and Renault Group's broader innovation strategies. This move, he noted, marks a significant turning point for the Viry-Châtillon site, ensuring the continuity of its expertise while strengthening Alpine's identity as an "innovation garage."

The decision to halt F1 engine operations has been contentious, with staff at Viry expressing concerns and protesting the move. However, the review of Alpine's F1 plans by Renault CEO Luca de Meo and advisor Flavio Briatore revealed that partnering with Mercedes for engines was a more financially viable and competitive option. Alpine currently faces a power deficit with its existing engines, and a Mercedes partnership could rectify this issue.

Discussions between Alpine and Mercedes are ongoing, with no formal partnership announcement yet. Nonetheless, Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes acknowledged that the ultimate goal is to have the best engine available, a decision now under careful consideration by de Meo.

The transformation at Viry and Renault's shift to a customer engine model represents a significant evolution in the brand's approach to motorsport and innovation.