Dissatisfied Renault Formula 1 employees are intensifying their protests in response to the French manufacturer's decision to discontinue its official Formula 1 engine program.
During the last race weekend at Monza, staff members traveled from Viry-Chatillon, France, to stage a peaceful demonstration from the grandstands. Additionally, a work stoppage occurred at the factory where Alpine's F1 engines are produced.
Amid mounting tensions, Renault CEO Luca de Meo has stated that the choice to terminate the works program and transition to using Mercedes customer power units for the 2026 season is not yet final.
With staff morale declining, the protests have garnered support from the prominent French labor union CGT, leading to the organization of a new wave of demonstrations.
According to RMC Sport, a protest involving 100 employees took place on Thursday at Renault's global headquarters in Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
Furthermore, Ouest France reported that another group of approximately 40 F1 engine workers gathered on the same day at the renowned Le Mans circuit to voice their objections.
"We are not in a standoff," insisted Clement Gamberoni, spokesperson for the disgruntled Alpine employees. "We just want Mr de Meo to have all the arguments before making his decision."
"Even if we know that when it gets to that level, the decision could have already been made."
CGT union representatives from other Renault locations also backed Thursday's actions. "It's a stab in the back," commented union representative Karine Dubreucq.
"We managed to develop an engine in 18 months, and are asking Mr de Meo to reconsider his project and give this engine a chance."
When questioned about the situation in Baku on Thursday, Pierre Gasly acknowledged the impact of Renault potentially ceasing to design engines for Formula 1.
"I think it's obviously historic to the team," Gasly stated. "It's a tricky topic."
"I think ultimately it goes to the top management on what is the right decision for the team moving forward, but obviously there is an important part of history and experience and legacy from their work in our sport."
