Alpine Formula 1 driver Pierre Gasly addressed the surprising news of Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo stepping down after five years in charge, a move announced on Sunday. De Meo is set to leave his position officially on 15 July, marking the end of a transformative period for the company that includes the Alpine F1 team, with Gasly reflecting on the implications for the team’s future.
Luca de Meo Reflects on His Departure and Achievements
In a public statement, Luca de Meo explained that he felt the time had come to pass leadership to others, confident that the company had been positioned for long-term success. De Meo highlighted that Renault’s results under his leadership
“are the best in our history”
thanks to a strong team, an adaptable organization, and a strategic plan ready for new product generations.
That is why I have decided it is time for me to hand over the baton. I am leaving a transformed company, poised for the future, to apply my experience to other sectors and embark on new adventures.
—Luca de Meo, Renault Group CEO
Gasly’s Personal Connection to de Meo and Initial Reaction
After finishing 15th at the Canadian Grand Prix, Gasly shared his sadness at seeing de Meo depart, emphasizing the personal relationship they had developed. Gasly credited de Meo for bringing him into the Alpine team and described him as an inspiring figure.
First of all, I think I need to have all the information. I have a very good relationship with Luca, he was the one that took me into the team, and I think he’s a very inspiring person. So obviously, first reaction is that I’m very sad to see him leave.
—Pierre Gasly, Alpine driver
Importance of Unity and Maintaining Momentum Amid Change
Despite the current challenges and uncertainties within the team, Gasly highlighted positive developments at Alpine’s factory and the necessity to focus on upcoming seasons, particularly 2026 when performance changes are expected.
I’m sure he’s got some good reasons, and I think at the end, for us as a team – even though not everything is great at the moment – there’s still a lot of positives happening at the factory. And for me, it’s important that we keep that momentum going into ’26, because the picture and the performance could be very different. And we need to keep that in mind.
—Pierre Gasly
Gasly also expressed the need to understand the full implications of de Meo’s departure by discussing with team management.
Yes, I need to sit down with management and understand a bit more on what it means for the team, etc.
—Pierre Gasly
But at the end of the day, we all have our job, we all have our role, and we all need to focus on what we’ve got to do, and do it best. But, for sure I need to sit down with everyone.
—Pierre Gasly
Recent Leadership Changes at Alpine Highlight Ongoing Team Shifts
The Alpine F1 team has experienced significant leadership turnover over the past few seasons. Following the departures of team principal Otmar Szafnauer and sporting director Alan Permane in July 2023, Bruno Famin temporarily stepped in as team chief. Subsequently, Oliver Oakes was appointed as the team principal, and former Renault executive Flavio Briatore joined as an executive advisor.
However, after the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, Oakes unexpectedly resigned, and Steve Nielsen is anticipated to return to take over the leadership role, further adding to the team’s period of transition.
Gasly Emphasizes the Need for Team Cohesion During Transition
With multiple changes off the track, Gasly acknowledged the understandable challenges this poses for the team’s focus but underscored the value of solidarity and mutual support during such times.
I understand that. It’s completely normal, it’s completely human to feel that. And I think it’s important for all of us to stick as a team and stick together in these types of moments. And, you know, rely on each other and just trust the long game.
—Pierre Gasly
Looking Ahead: Stability and Performance as Priorities for Alpine
As Alpine moves forward without Luca de Meo’s leadership at Renault, Pierre Gasly’s comments highlight a cautious optimism within the team. Maintaining stability, focusing on performance improvements, and nurturing team spirit will be essential as Alpine prepares for the next chapter in Formula 1. The ongoing management changes present challenges, but also opportunities for growth as the organization adapts to new leadership in pursuit of future successes.
