Alfa Romeo stay in Formula One: Alfa Romeo’s continued participation in Formula One is uncertain as its partnership with Sauber is set to expire at the end of this year, according to Chief Executive Jean-Philippe Imparato. Speaking at the Italian Grand Prix, Imparato revealed that the company is still weighing its options. Swiss-based Sauber will transition to become the Audi factory team starting in 2026, following Volkswagen’s initial stake in the team this January.
Imparato hinted at the possibility of a future partnership with another Formula One team. He specifically mentioned U.S.-owned Haas as a potential partner due to its close ties with Alfa/Sauber’s current F1 engine partner, Ferrari. The partnership could involve a ‘re-branded’ power unit.
The French executive also spoke about Stellantis, Alfa Romeo’s parent company, saying that its entire car lineup will be fully electric by 2027. However, Imparato ruled out a move to the all-electric Formula E to avoid competing against other Stellantis brands, such as DS and Maserati.
“I feel that I must stay in motorsport, and I will stay in motorsport. That is what I want,” Imparato said. His remarks indicate a commitment to motorsports, though not necessarily Formula One. He explicitly ruled out participating in Rally Raid and the World Rally Championship (WRC), citing the historical narrative of Alfa Romeo in motorsports.
Imparato praised the existing partnership with Sauber, saying it represented the best return on investment in his 33-year career. “The problem for me is that I (now) have to find the right balance between investment, return on investment, and connection with the brand positioning,” he added.
Formula One has seen a surge in its fan base, particularly in the United States, thanks in part to the Netflix docu-series’ Drive to Survive’ and an expanded calendar featuring new races like Las Vegas. This growing popularity poses an important backdrop to Alfa Romeo’s decision-making regarding its future in the sport.
In the interview, Imparato also discussed the Monza pitlane-shown limited-edition Alfa 33 Stradale racecar. The 33-unit 333kph Stradale has been sold. Customers can choose an electric or ICE automobile. Imparato predicts that 70% of buyers will choose ICE. Racing might help make the globe more sustainable, said Imparato. “I see no reason motorsport and electrification can’t go together,” he remarked. Motorsports is a “school of excellence” that may aid sustainability and zero-emissions.
Alfa Romeo is considering its Formula One strategy after its Sauber agreement ends. CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato has suggested Haas as a partner. Stellantis, which owns Alfa Romeo, is moving toward electric automobiles, but Imparato ruled out Formula E, suggesting the brand’s future in motorsports may still entail regular racing categories. Formula One is growing in popularity; thus, the option will depend on investment, brand positioning, and ROI. Alfa Romeo is still interested in racing, but not Formula One.
Our Reader’s Queries
Will Alfa Romeo stay in F1?
Alfa Romeo has shifted its attention to the World Endurance Championship, as it has decided not to participate in Formula 1 at the moment. The Italian carmaker’s partnership with Sauber team ended after a successful six-year run, with the title sponsorship deal concluding at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last weekend. Alfa Romeo is now focusing on its future in the World Endurance Championship.
What will happen to Alfa Romeo F1 in 2026?
Alfa Romeo has announced its departure from Formula 1, while Audi gears up for its 2026 takeover of Sauber. This news has sent shockwaves through the racing world, as fans and experts alike speculate on what this means for the future of the sport. With Alfa Romeo’s exit, many are left wondering who will fill the void left by the iconic brand. Meanwhile, Audi’s preparations for its takeover of Sauber have sparked excitement and anticipation for what’s to come. Only time will tell how these changes will impact the world of Formula 1.
Will Alfa Romeo be in F1 in 2024?
Sauber has officially announced their new team name for the upcoming Formula 1 season after the departure of Alfa Romeo. The team will now be known by their original name, which they will be returning to for the 2024 season. This marks the end of Alfa Romeo’s involvement in Formula 1, as the Sauber-run outfit takes on a new identity. Fans can look forward to seeing the team compete under their familiar name, as they continue to strive for success in the world of motorsport.
Is this Alfa Romeo’s last year in F1?
After the 2023 season, Alfa Romeo will be leaving F1 and the team is anticipated to return to the Sauber branding for the 2024 season.
