Alpine is set to redefine its Formula 1 trajectory by securing a long-term agreement to utilize Mercedes engines starting from the 2026 season. This move, aimed at enhancing the team’s competitiveness, follows the decision to end its collaboration with Renault after 2025 and could significantly influence Alpine’s performance and driver lineup in the coming years.
Leadership Changes and Management Challenges at Alpine
The team has experienced considerable management upheaval since the removal of Chief Executive Laurent Rossi in 2023. Alongside Rossi’s exit, Alpine has seen numerous changes in personnel, including the high-profile return of former CEO Flavio Briatore, re-entering the sport 16 years after being banned due to the ‘Crashgate’ controversy. These shifts come amid inconsistent results from Alpine’s engine division located in Viry-Chatillon, leading to internal uncertainty.
Long-Term Commitment to Mercedes Power Units and Gearboxes
At the end of 2024, Alpine confirmed its decision to partner with Mercedes power units and gearboxes through at least 2030. This extended collaboration positions Alpine alongside one of the most successful engine suppliers, with Mercedes widely tipped to produce the strongest engine package in the 2026 season. By joining forces with Mercedes, Alpine is seeking to capitalize on advanced powertrain technology to close the gap to leading teams.
Potential Driver Market Shifts and Impact on Alpine’s Lineup
The engine deal with Mercedes could also trigger changes within Alpine’s driver roster. Speculation around Max Verstappen possibly transferring to Mercedes has sparked conversations about rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s future. Should Verstappen join Mercedes alongside George Russell, Alpine could gain the opportunity to bring Antonelli on board, potentially injecting new talent into the team and reshaping its driver dynamics.
Ending a Historic Relationship with Renault
This transition marks the conclusion of Alpine’s partnership with Renault, ending a long-standing involvement that included supplying engines to championship-winning teams like Red Bull from 2010 to 2014. Despite Renault’s past contributions, its engines were often marred by reliability problems and lacked the power needed to consistently challenge Mercedes and Ferrari.
Significance of the Mercedes Partnership for Alpine’s Future Prospects
As Alpine prepares for this pivotal new chapter, the move to Mercedes engines represents a strategic attempt to elevate the team’s standing within Formula 1. With improved power unit performance and possible fresh talent in the cockpit, Alpine is poised to challenge the sport’s established order. This partnership could unlock new opportunities for success and reshape Alpine’s reputation in the highly competitive F1 landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, drivers can choose 13. When F1 introduced permanent numbers in 2014, Pastor Maldonado picked #13. Although some see 13 as unlucky, drivers decide their own numbers.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British Formula One driver. He currently races for Mercedes but previously drove for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about living with ADHD and explores his various interests and passions.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. Right now, drivers can choose a number for their career anywhere between 0, 2, and 99. Only the World Champion can use number 1. If a driver doesn’t compete for two seasons, their number may be chosen by someone else, but this doesn’t apply to number 1.
Q. Which F1 drivers have ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton is a British race car driver known for competing in Formula One. He currently drives for Mercedes but has also raced for McLaren. Born in 1985, Sir Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton has openly shared his experiences with ADHD. He also talks about his various hobbies and interests.