Automotive News: Renault names Francois Provost to replace de Meo

Renault Group has appointed company veteran Francois Provost (pictured) as CEO to replace Luca de Meo, who resigned earlier this month to lead Gucci owner Kering.

The Renault owned Alpine F1 team wonders whether Provost likes motorsports and will keep the team, or spin it off for a profit.

Steve Nielsen will join as Alpine F1 Managing Director in September, while former Visa executive Guy Martin has also been appointed Global Marketing Director.

Alpine will switch to Mercedes power units in 2026 at the urging of Favio Briatore. One wonder of Provost will keep the controversial Briatore while rumors are that former Red Bull boss Christian Horner might become the Alpine Team Principal.

He previously served as Renault Group’s Chief Procurement, Partnerships and Public Affairs Officer, bringing more than two decades of experience within the organization to the top role.

Provost, who has been with Renault for 23 years, most recently served as Chief Procurement Officer and co-founded the EV unit Ampere alongside de Meo

In a statement, Provost expressed his appreciation for the opportunity.

“It is with pride and gratitude that I welcome my appointment,” he said. “I would like to warmly thank my President, Jean-Dominique Senard and the Board of Directors for the trust they have placed in me.

“I have a special thought for the teams across the Group who have supported me throughout these past 23 years.

“I will dedicate all my energy and passion to contributing – alongside our 100,000 employees, our dealers, suppliers, and partners – to the development of our Group, one of the flagships of French industry for the past 127 years.”

“These will be invaluable assets as we accelerate our transformation in an increasingly demanding environment for our industry,” he added. “You can count on my commitment and determination to write the next page of our history together.”

Renault chairman Jean-Dominique Senard welcomed the appointment, praising Provost’s leadership and experience.

““I am confident that Francois Provost will lead the Group with discernment and determination in an environment that demands both rigor in execution, strategic vision and the ability to innovate.” Senard said.

“At Renault Group, there is no place for the status quo.

“Thanks to his expertise and knowledge of the company, we will be able to complete the implementation of our strategic plan, finalize the terms of the next one, and ensure its successful execution.

“I sincerely look forward to working with him.”