Could Alpine Surprise as a Contender at Le Mans?

Alpine Racing’s chief may have low expectations for the team this year, but I believe there is potential for a surprise performance. Bruno Famin, a seasoned engineer with a track record of success, now leads Alpine Racing and faces the challenge of reviving a struggling Formula 1 team and a developing World Endurance Championship (WEC) program.

### Assessing the Situation at Spa

During a recent visit to the 6 Hours of Spa, I had the opportunity to observe Alpine’s new hypercar, the A424, in action. While the team faced challenges at Imola following a promising debut in Qatar, there were signs of progress. Famin remained cautious about the team’s performance, emphasizing the need for improvement and learning from each race.

### Racing for Brand Awareness

Despite the competitive field in both Formula 1 and WEC, Famin highlighted the importance of racing for brand awareness. With plans to expand Alpine’s electric vehicle lineup and enter new markets, success on the track could translate to increased visibility and sales for the brand.

### A Glimpse of Potential at Spa

Surprisingly, Alpine showed strong performance at Spa, outpacing some established competitors and securing a top-ten finish. The team’s resilience and determination were evident throughout the race, hinting at their potential for future success.

### Looking Ahead to Le Mans

While Famin remains cautious about Alpine’s chances at Le Mans, recent performances suggest that the team could be underestimated. With motivated drivers like Ferdinand Habsburg and Mick Schumacher leading the charge, Alpine has the talent and drive to compete with the best.

### Conclusion

While Alpine may not be the favorite to win at Le Mans, their recent performances indicate that they should not be overlooked. With a focus on continuous improvement and a dedicated team, Alpine Racing could surprise many in the upcoming races. Stay tuned for an exciting season ahead!