22. Philippe Krief

Philippe Krief, born in 1965, is a powerhouse in automotive engineering with over 35 years of experience shaping some of the world’s most iconic vehicles. A graduate of Paris’s prestigious École Nationale Supérieure de Techniques Avancées, Krief’s career has been defined by his deep expertise in chassis design and vehicle dynamics—key factors that determine how a car handles and performs, whether on the road or the race track.

Krief’s journey began at Michelin, the legendary tire maker whose technology plays a crucial role not only in everyday driving but also in the high-stakes world of Formula 1. His understanding of tire and chassis interaction laid a foundation for his future roles in the automotive industry.

From 1998 to 2011, he advanced to FIAT, where he led teams focused on chassis and vehicle dynamics. This expertise paved the way for senior engineering positions at Ferrari, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo—brands synonymous with speed, precision, and passion. At Alfa Romeo, Krief was instrumental in developing the Giulia and Stelvio models, cars celebrated for their dynamic driving experiences. Meanwhile, at Ferrari, he helped bring to life the 458 Speciale, a supercar renowned for its race-bred performance.

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Krief’s engineering mastery culminated in his return to Ferrari as Engineering Director and Head of Research & Development, where he continued to push the boundaries of high-performance innovation. His knowledge perfectly aligns with the spirit of Formula 1, where engineering precision and relentless pursuit of speed define every victory.

In 2023, Philippe Krief took on a new challenge, joining Alpine as Director of Engineering and Product Performance. His leadership and vision were quickly recognised, and on July 20, he was appointed CEO of Alpine. Under his guidance, Alpine is poised to write its next chapter—blending cutting-edge technology and racing heritage, much like its sister team competing in the Formula 1 world championship.

From mastering chassis dynamics to leading a brand with a bold motorsport legacy, Philippe Krief’s career is a thrilling ride at the intersection of automotive innovation and racing excellence.