Alpine still 'trying to understand' 2024 development path

Alpine are still tentative about which direction of development to follow with the A524. Early departures from senior personnel have put a question mark on their 2024 trajectory. Pierre Gasly has confirmed that some changes will be introduced at the upcoming Japanese GP. These components will help determine the team’s path in the upcoming season.

Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly are in a very tricky position. On paper, they are in a manufacturing team that fully controls the manufacturing of their cars and engines. In this sense, Alpine has more control over its performance than most teams.

Unlike others who take components externally, the French outfit controls its entire design and production process. However, this autonomy actually creates greater concerns when assessing their decline in recent seasons.

Bruno Famin’s team is one of three teams yet to score points in 2024. Q3 is still well beyond an A524 car that generally fails to challenge its rivals in the midfield.

Although a hectic race with several retirements could present opportunities, Alpine have too many resources to be reliant on the misfortunes of others to score points.

Upgrades are arriving at the A524 in an effort to rectify the situation. However, the changes scheduled for the Japanese GP are not purely for performance. For Gasly and Ocon, they could provide answers about the team’s chances of progressing in 2024.

Gasly: Japanese GP is crucial for Alpine

At the Australian GP weekend, Pierre Gasly discussed the team’s plans for Suzuka:

“We will also bring some new things [to Japan], so we can see what effect they will have on our car,” it.motorsport quotes him as saying.

“I believe that at the moment, it is above all a question of trying to understand what the general picture is. 

“Whether to remain faithful to the concept we have, or to try to change direction.”

These comments speak to the uncertainty that surrounds the Enstone-based squad in 2024. An uncompetitive car is one thing, but this can be addressed with an effective mid-season development plan.

However, the departure of former technical director Matt Harman means the A524’s architect is no longer overseeing its progression. This will complicate the team’s efforts to understand a concept that is largely unknown to them.

With the 2026 regulations on the horizon, Alpine has a shrinking window of opportunity to correct its mistakes over winter. This weekend in Japan will provide some early insights into its chances of recovery.

At a circuit that demands significant load and aerodynamic performance, any weaknesses will be clearly exposed.