Otmar Szafnauer was appointed Alpine's team principal only recently, having departed Aston Martin at the end of the 2021 season.
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Newly-appointed Alpine F1 team principal Otmar Szafnauer is excited to get down to work at the Enstone/Viry based team, saying he knows the potential the French constructor’s have.
Szafnauer was appointed to the role only recently, having departed Aston Martin at the end of the 2021 season.
Speaking at Alpine’s recent car launch, Szafnauer spoke about wanting to get down to work as soon as possible.
“I’m exceptionally proud to be joining BWT Alpine F1 Team as Team Principal,” said Szafnauer. “I’m very grateful to Laurent (Rossi, Alpine Chief Executive Officer) for the trust to lead this team in my role and I’m looking forward to beginning this new journey.
“I know a lot about the team as they were fierce competitors from my previous roles. I know just how good this team is, and, indeed, how good it can become.
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“The personnel on board, and both drivers, are so strong and I’m excited to get down to business.
“We have to be passionate about what we do, whatever the task. A high-performing team’s key to success has, and always will be, teamwork.
“We’ll control what we are able to control, we’ll enjoy our journey, and we’ll enjoy the racing because that is what we’re here to do.
“As a team, we’re all racers and that is why we enjoy our work in Formula 1. With this passion and teamwork, I know success will come.”
Szafnauer will have at least one familiar face in the paddock when he does get down to work. He will be reunited with Esteban Ocon, who spent two seasons at Force India while Szafnauer was team principal.
The Romanian-American also spoke of his excitement of getting to work alongside Fernando Alonso, who he dubbed a ‘motorsport legend’.
2022 with these two ? signing off from #A522Launch pic.twitter.com/IP23GLId2O
— BWT Alpine F1 Team (@AlpineF1Team) February 21, 2022
“I know Esteban very well from his two seasons at Force India. Back then, he was young, raw, hugely talented and very quick on-track. In fact, not much has changed since.
“His talent is clear to see, and I was very happy and proud to see him claim his first Grand Prix win last season. It’s great to team up with Esteban again as I have a good relationship with him already.
“Everyone knows Fernando’s exceptional qualities. His experience is invaluable, and I thoroughly believe the team’s line-up is amongst the strongest on the grid.
“It’s going to be enjoyable to work with a motorsport legend in Fernando and to reunite with Esteban.”
