Can F1’s ‘unconventional’ champion team rise again?
Sep 28, 2023
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Damien Smith, author of the new book Benetton: Rebels of Formula 1, joins to discuss Alpine's struggles, Ocon's journey, and Williams' potential driver change.
Team Enstone, formerly known as Benetton and Renault, has struggled to make significant progress in Formula One due to management upheavals and a lack of clear direction.
Drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, associated with Team Enstone, have shown skill and potential but have been unable to secure top seats in Formula One, remaining in the middle tier of the grid.
To overcome stagnation and underperformance, Team Enstone needs strong leadership, stability, and integration of the engine and chassis sides, as demonstrated during the Renault era.
Deep dives
Inconsistent Progress and Stagnation at Team Enstone
Team Enstone, formerly known as Benetton and Renault, is currently facing challenges in making significant progress in Formula One. Despite showing promise in the past, the team has been unable to break into the top tier and has remained in a plateaued position. While they have had occasional wins and podium finishes, the team has struggled to consistently perform at a high level. Management upheavals and a lack of clear direction have hindered their progress, and fans and observers have grown increasingly frustrated with the team's lackluster performance.
Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly's Frustrating Career Trajectories
Two drivers associated with Team Enstone, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, find themselves in frustrating career situations. While both drivers have shown skill and potential, they have struggled to break into the upper echelons of Formula One. Ocon, in particular, has been on a long-term deal with the team but has not been able to secure a top seat in the sport. Gasly, on the other hand, experienced a fortuitous win at Monza but has not been able to consistently challenge for victories. Both drivers find themselves in the middle tier of the grid, lacking the opportunities to showcase their abilities in a top-level car.
The Need for Strong Leadership and Stability
To overcome their stagnation and underperformance, Team Enstone needs strong leadership and stability. Previous success with team boss Flavio Briatore highlights the importance of having a leader who can maintain a clear vision for the team and allow the talented individuals within the organization to do their jobs. The integration of the engine and chassis sides, as demonstrated during the Renault era, also played a crucial role in their past successes. However, recent management upheavals and corporate pressures have hindered the team's progress. Finding the right leader who can bring stability and maximize the team's resources will be crucial for Team Enstone's future success.
The Uncertainty Surrounding Renault's Future in F1
The podcast discusses the uncertainty surrounding Renault's future in Formula 1. It highlights the importance for Renault to have a team boss who can present the right approach and act as a human shield. The current confusion and constant changes in strategy are not benefiting the team. The podcast emphasizes the need for creative thinking in finding a suitable team boss, possibly someone outside of the standard F1 profile.
Evaluation of Esteban Ocon and a Potential Replacement
The podcast evaluates Esteban Ocon's performance at Alpine and suggests that Williams should consider looking for a new driver. While Ocon has shown promise, he has made too many mistakes and has not delivered consistent results. The podcast suggests Liam Lawson as a potential replacement, praising his methodical approach and ability to perform under pressure. It emphasizes that Williams should have confidence in their driver choices and highlights the need for a strong lineup during their rebuilding phase.
Damien Smith, author of the new book Benetton: Rebels of Formula 1, joins Matt Beer and Edd Straw to discuss Alpine's struggles, the future of Esteban Ocon and whether or not Williams stick with Logan Sargeant.
