Signatech Seeks New Manufacturer to Keep A424 on WEC Hypercar Grid
Failing to seal a partner by the November 23 entry deadline would push Signatech onto contingency plans and make a 2028 Hypercar return far more likely.
Overview
- Signatech said during the Monza weekend that it is in active talks with one unnamed manufacturer but has not closed a deal to secure the Alpine A424-derived programme for 2027.
- Lengthy rescue talks with Chinese automaker Geely broke down in October, removing what had been the most advanced option for a 2027 entry.
- Any short-term takeover would almost certainly reuse the existing A424 bodywork and the Viry-Chatillon-built engine, with Signatech coordinating with Dumarey after that company bought the engine-facility assets.
- Sporting rules and grid expectations mean Signatech cannot continue in 2027 as a privateer under the Alpine badge because entries are expected to be two-car, manufacturer-backed programmes.
- Signatech has formal backup plans, including a move to an LMP2 campaign in the European Le Mans Series to keep staff employed, and team leaders say a return to Hypercar in 2028 is the more realistic outcome if no deal is reached by November 23.