Alpine coy regarding Gucci speculation as BWT agreement approaches conclusion.

      Alpine has declined to dismiss the growing speculation regarding a potential title sponsorship agreement with the luxury fashion brand Gucci. According to Austria's Krone newspaper, Alpine's current title sponsorship with the Austrian water technology firm BWT is nearing its conclusion and might not extend beyond 2026.

      "Should it come to fruition, it would mark Gucci's inaugural venture into Formula 1," Krone stated, alluding to the latest rumors. "However, a connection to the sport already exists through Luca de Meo." The report highlighted that Luca de Meo, the former CEO of Renault Group, has been leading the Kering luxury group since last summer.

      French publication Auto Hebdo reached out to Alpine for comment regarding the Gucci speculation. A spokesperson mentioned, "The team is consistently exploring new partnership opportunities and engages with a variety of brands and companies as potential partners. However, these discussions remain confidential and are only revealed once they are confirmed and approved by all parties involved."

      This speculation is particularly notable as Alpine's five-year agreement with BWT, which introduced the well-known pink branding to the team after previous associations with Force India and Racing Point, is set to expire at the end of 2026. Auto Hebdo further suggested that Gucci's potential entry could align with the increasingly luxury-oriented strategy of Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore.

      The report also emphasized Pierre Gasly's existing fashion connections, noting, "With Pierre Gasly already serving as an ambassador for Givenchy and Lacoste, Alpine has already made inroads into the luxury sector." It added that the French team could elevate its profile even further by adopting Gucci's branding.

      Additionally, it is believed that the 24 percent stake in the team held by Otro Capital is still up for grabs, with Christian Horner and Mercedes both rumored to be interested. Reports on Tuesday indicated that Horner is now officially free to return to Formula 1 following the conclusion of his gardening leave agreement with Red Bull.