Alfa Romeo gives news of its Endurance commitment

Alfa Romeo and competition go hand in hand. So, after the end of its sponsorship of the Sauber F1 team, the Italian brand had well confirmed his interest in the Endurance categoryThis is an area of renewed interest, with the return of prestigious brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Porsche and others. So where does this leave us? The brand's CEO gives an update in the newspaper Ouest-France.

After a significant five-year period as main sponsor of the Sauber team in Formula 1, Alfa Romeo withdraws from the world of F1This decision was influenced by the gradual takeover of Sauber by Audi. This marks a turning point for the Italian brand, renowned for its motorsport heritage.

Alfa Romeo Managing Director Jean-Philippe Imparato explained this strategic decision at a press roundtable on Thursday, December 14. "Did we want to repeat the experience under the same conditions, sponsoring a team for about twice the price? No, because I wasn't bringing anything new and I had money to put into developing my products," he declared, underlining the brand's desire for renewal and innovation.

Alfa Romeo, however, is not turning its back on motorsport.. Endurance racing, with its growing prestige, is attracting the automaker's attention. But Imparato insists on a different approach: " If I do it, I'm not doing it as a sponsor, I'm doing it as an owner." stating that if Alfa Romeo makes a commitment, it will be for a significant period, with at least three seasons of competition and one or two seasons of preparation.

However, Alfa Romeo's commitment to endurance racing is not without conditions. Caution is called for, especially in terms of financial investment. Imparato pointed to the "small danger" of a trend towards spending inflation in the sport, recalling similar situations that arose in 2015. " So far, I'm not convinced by the economic equation, and I wouldn't take a risk that could send the company back into areas where it would lose out financially, "he added.

Despite these reservations, Alfa Romeo's interest in endurance racing is undeniable. I really want to do something, so we're working hard," concluded Imparato, hinting that "I'd like to do something.An announcement could be imminent, once a viable strategy has been established.

Alfa Romeo's commitment to Endurance racing, as a team owner, would be a welcome announcement in the world of motorsports, joining other prestigious brands that have already confirmed their participation. Perhaps the Italian brand will be keeping an eye on the results of the Peugeot team, another Stellantis Group brand already involved in Endurance racing, in 2024...