Alpine has signaled an openness to Fernando Alonso rejoining the team, years after his departure in 2022 due to failed contract talks.
The two-time world champion left Alpine after negotiations for a long-term deal collapsed, with the Renault-owned team citing concerns over Alonso's age, then 41.
Since then, the team's leadership has undergone a complete overhaul, notably with Alonso's former manager Flavio Briatore returning as a key figure - and now even the current team boss.
Alonso, now 43, is contracted to Aston Martin until the end of 2026 but has indicated he will maintain ties with the brand beyond his racing career.
At a book launch this week, Renault CEO Luca de Meo spoke warmly of Alonso, hinting at a possible future collaboration. "He's an incredible guy," he told Car And Driver.
"He left us at the Alpine team also due to a mistake on our part. Maybe we didn't treat him the way we should have, but we still have a very good relationship. I respect him a lot—he's a great champion, and a guy with real drive. There are very few who have Fernando's determination. He's a great driver. Especially when you have a car that's, let's say, not so good," de Meo said with a smile.
Despite the openness, de Meo expressed support for Alonso's current endeavors, stating, "I hope he succeeds with Aston Martin, because he deserves it."
Reflecting on his own challenges at the time of Alonso's exit, de Meo revealed the precarious state of the team and Renault. "We were losing money every single day," he said.
"Some people told me I was crazy to take the job. It was already planned close the team down, which I opposed. I found a way to invest. But in F1, you suffer every weekend. I still haven't found the algorithm to win."
