F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali breaks silence on Renault shutting down power units division

Formula 1 will be losing a key manufacturer's power unit program when the new rules come into effect in 2026.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali breaks silence on Renault shutting down power units division

Stefano Domenicali (via IMAGO) Renault (via Renault)

The 2026 regulations, which introduce a 50/50 power split between electric and internal combustion engine components, have attracted manufacturers like Audi and Ford to sign as power unit providers. However, Renault has struggled with hybrid engines and plans to convert its Alpine F1 team into a customer team. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali believes that Renault did not make this decision mainly because of the new rules.

Stefano Domenicali explained that Renault’s decision to stop providing engines for F1 cars was influenced by factors beyond the new regulations. He emphasized that he is being very open and honest about this. Domenicali believes there might be other reasons for Renault’s decision, apart from just the 2026 rule changes. He suggested that their choice involves more than the new regulations alone.

I think that [Renault’s] real decision was related to another condition, to be very open and very honest with you.
Stefano Domenicali told motorsport.com
YouTube video

Domenicali stated that Renault’s decision is not about the new regulations being wrong. Instead, it’s about a different issue. He explained that Renault needs to achieve results within a different timeframe. Their choice is driven by other challenges and deadlines they face, not just the new rules. They are shifting their attention and resources to develop alpine rather than continuing with their F1 engine program.

FS Video
It’s not related to the wrong regulation. It is related to a different situation that they have to deliver a result in a different time frame.
Stefano Domenicali added.
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Stefano Domenicali claims FIA made sure the manufacturer’s commitment to championship

Stefano Domenicali stated that when the new regulations were introduced, it was important to make sure manufacturers wanted to be a part of the championship. He believed manufacturers are crucial, because without their engines races couldn’t take place. It was necessary for the FIA to listen to their needs and concerns before making the further decision. The FIA always had the plan to design the rules that are fine with each engine manufacturer.

Stefano Domenicali
Stefano Domenicali (via IMAGO)
I believe that, at the moment when the regulation was defined, there was the need to make sure that the manufacturers were really interested to be part of the championship. They are a vital element of this equation, because with no engine we cannot run – therefore there was the need to listen.
Stefano Domenicali stated.

Certainly, Stefano Domenicali believed Renault’s exit as a power unit provider is not related to the upcoming rule change. They are focusing on different aspects of their team, which has influenced them to take this decision. The 2026 rules were made by taking everyone’s needs and feedbacks into account.

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