As Alpine’s new team principal, Otmar Szafnauer wants to be “part of the transition” to success – He considers the Ocon/Alonso driver pairing to be one of the strongest in the Formula 1 field
After Otmar Szafnauer was confirmed as Alpine’s new Formula One team principal in mid-February, the 57-year-old made his first official appearance in the new role this Monday at the presentation of the A522.
Previously Szafnauer worked for Aston Martin (formerly Force India/Racing Point) and admits, “It wasn’t always a pleasure to fight against them. I remember too well when they beat us in Hungary. They’re great competitors and I’m looking forward to helping them beat not only Aston Martin but everyone else on the track.”
Szafnauer believes the conditions are right. “I know how good this team is and how good it can become,” he says confidently. “The personnel on board and the two drivers are so strong that I can’t wait to get down to business. “
Szafnauer on Ocon: “His talent is unmistakable “
The new Alpine team boss knows one of the two drivers, Esteban Ocon, from his time at Force India, where Ocon completed two Formula 1 seasons in 2017/18. “Back then he was young, inexperienced, very talented and very fast on the track. Not much has really changed since then. His talent is unmistakable. “
“I was very happy and proud that he could get his first Grand Prix win last season,” Szafnauer refers to Ocon’s maiden victory in Budapest 2021. It was the first success for Renault/Alpine since the 2008 Japanese Grand Prix.
“It’s great to work with Esteban again as I already have a good relationship with him,” says Szafnauer, who sees two-time Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso as the perfect complement to Ocon.
Team boss looking forward to working with Alonso
“Everyone knows the exceptional qualities of Fernando. His experience is invaluable and I firmly believe that the team is one of the strongest on the grid. It will be a pleasure to work with a motorsport legend like Fernando and to meet Esteban again.”
When asked what qualities he will bring to the table as the new team principal, the 57-year-old stressed, “Leadership is paramount to the success of any business, be it in sport, Formula One or any other field. “
“It’s never an easy task and it’s not an easy road, but that’s what makes the challenge so exciting,” Szafnauer continues, citing passion, teamwork and respect for the individual as key factors for success. “We will control what we can control, we will enjoy our journey and we will enjoy racing because that’s what we are here for. “
How competitive will Alpine be in the new era?
The anticipation for the test drives in Barcelona is accordingly high. “This season will be even more so as Formula 1 enters a new era,” Szafnauer knows.
“I’m very excited to see the A522 on track and to see how we can develop the package over the course of the season. Right now is a fantastic moment – when words turn into action. Everyone’s hard work in developing the car has definitely paid off.”
Finally, the new team principal emphasises once again, “I’m very proud to be part of this team and to be part of the transition and future progress.”
