Renault accused of betrayal over scrapped Alpine tech hub plans

The mayor of Viry-Chatillon has publicly accused Renault of "lies and betrayal" for allegedly reneging on promises to transform its former Formula 1 engine factory into a new Alpine technology hub, casting doubt on the site's future and the jobs of its workers.

Why it matters:

This controversy strikes at the heart of Renault's post-F1 strategy and its commitment to its workforce. After ending its works F1 power unit program, the planned 'Hypertech Alpine' center was presented as a vital lifeline, promising to retain high-tech expertise and jobs by pivoting to other motorsport and road car projects. Scrapping these plans could mean the end of Renault's historic engine manufacturing legacy and trigger significant local and political backlash in France.

The details:

• Renault's former F1 engine base in Viry-Chatillon was slated for a new future as 'Hypertech Alpine' after the company exited its works F1 power unit program at the end of 2025.
• The rebranded center was promised to focus on designing Alpine's next supercar, advancing battery and electric technology, and supporting programs in WEC, Formula E, and rally-raid.
• Jean-Marie Vilain, the mayor of Viry-Chatillon, claims Renault's new leadership under CEO Francois Provost is now abandoning these commitments, with an internal announcement expected on February 12.
• In a strongly worded statement, Vilain condemned the move as showing "total disrespect towards the employees" and urged Renault and its shareholder, the French state, to reverse the decision.
• The mayor has threatened to lead protest actions alongside employees and other elected officials.

What's next:

The fallout from this decision is just beginning and puts multiple projects in doubt.

• Alpine's long-term involvement in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) beyond 2026 is already rumored to be under threat, a program the Viry site was expected to support.
• The most significant question is whether the Viry-Chatillon factory will now face a complete shutdown. If it closes, it would mark a definitive end to Renault's illustrious history as an engine manufacturer in Formula 1, a legacy that includes 169 grand prix wins and 23 world titles.
• The situation also places political pressure on the French government, which owns a 15% stake in Renault, to intervene in a matter affecting skilled employment and national industrial prestige.