Signatech is searching for a new manufacturer to take over its Hypercar programme after a deal to transition the Alpine project to Geely collapsed in early October. With the registration deadline for the 2027 World Endurance Championship approaching on November 26, the team is racing to secure its future in the top-tier series.
Geely Partnership Talks Collapse Ahead of Formal Decision
The collapse of the agreement with the Chinese automotive group marks a significant reversal for the Signatech-operated team. Negotiations had reached an advanced stage, with Alpine team principal Philippe Sinault previously expecting a decision daily. According to reports, a formal decision was made on October 8 not to proceed with the proposed handover of the Alpine A424 platform. Several other Chinese companies, including BYD, had been linked to the project earlier in the year, but Geely had become the most advanced candidate.
The Renault Group had previously decided to terminate its factory Hypercar programme at the end of 2026, forcing Signatech to seek a new partner to keep its operation alive. The recent purchase of Renault’s engine facility at Viry by the Belgian firm Dumarey Group does not include Signatech’s own operations, leaving the team to plan its future independently.
The Path to 2027
Despite the late-stage failure of the Geely deal, Sinault remains focused on maintaining the team’s presence in the Hypercar class. He confirmed that discussions are ongoing with other manufacturers, noting that the team had been in contact with multiple brands since the initial announcement regarding Alpine’s exit in February.
Since the announcement in February about Alpine stopping, we talked with some other [manufacturers]. We continue to talk with some of them,
Sinault said. When asked about his confidence in remaining on the grid, he stated, In my mind, 100%.
The team is operating under a strict timeline as they search for an alternative manufacturer to continue their WEC operation following the end of the Alpine factory programme at the 2026 season finale in Monza on November 8. If Signatech’s efforts to remain in Hypercar for 2027 fail, Sinault indicated he would target a comeback in the category the following year. The A424 has competed in the class since 2024, achieving a milestone victory at Fuji in 2025 with drivers Charles Milesi, Ferdinand Habsburg, and Paul-Loup Chatin.
Sinault Prioritizes Hypercar Class to Retain Team Talent
Sinault highlighted the importance of securing a strong project to retain the team’s engineering and driving talent. While a return to the LMP2 category—where the team enjoyed considerable success prior to its top-category entry—remains a possibility, he clarified that the priority is Hypercar.
Looking toward the deadline, Sinault expressed personal resolve regarding his leadership during this transition. I want to see my face in the mirror on the 23rd of November to say, I have pushed like hell. We have pushed all together like hell and we will find a good solution, and we are happy with that.
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