Alpine exclusive: 'Massive advantage' in not having Red Bull as customer
Alpine technical director Matt Harman says not having to supply "distraction" Red Bull Formula 1 power units is a "massive advantage ".
The long time relationship between Red Bull and Renault fractured in the turbo hybrid era owing to the French manufacturer's struggle to get on par with Mercedes and Ferrari units, meaning Red Bull were left fighting for occasional wins.
In mid-2018, it was announced that the partnership would cease, with Red Bull switching over to Honda power from '19 onwards, leaving Renault as a supplier to McLaren as well as their own works squad, now badged as Alpine.
McLaren elected to return to Mercedes units for 2021, meaning Renault are the only team not to have any customer supply deals with only the Enstone-based outfit running their offering.
However, Harman believes this has rewards for the team throughout the process, from design, building and racing. ...