Alpine's Mercedes engine switch delivering early promise as 2026 season approaches

For the first time in Alpine's modern Formula 1 history, the Enstone-based team has abandoned its long-running Renault power unit programme in favour of becoming a customer to Mercedes. This seismic shift represents far more than a simple engine swap—it marks a fundamental reset for a team that finished last in the 2025 constructors' championship after halting development of the A525 in early June to focus entirely on the 2026 regulations.

The decision drew considerable criticism from Renault engine staff, who viewed the transition as a betrayal of the manufacturer's commitment to F1. Yet early evidence suggests the move could deliver tangible benefits on track. Alpine's shakedown at Silverstone earlier this week proved remarkably trouble-free, with the team completing 140 kilometres of running without significant issues. This represents an unusual early sign of progress in what is shaping up to be a dramatically different era for the French team.

Mercedes as the game changer

The significance of Mercedes power in Alpine's future cannot be overstated. With parent company Renault opting out of power unit development, Alpine finally possesses what it has lacked in recent years: “a reference point against which to build without compromise.” Mercedes is believed to hold a competitive advantage over all other engine manufacturers for 2026, partly due to an astute interpretation of the new rules governing internal combustion engine compression ratios.

This partnership runs until at least 2030, providing both parties stability to build upon. Alpine will receive the same specification power unit as the Mercedes works squad, placing the customer team on equal technical footing with the manufacturers themselves.

Leadership and vision under Briatore

The arrival of Flavio Briatore as team principal in 2025 signalled a marked departure from previous uncertainty. While his return brought experience and authority to the paddock, it also underscored that Alpine had been searching for direction rather than executing a settled vision. However, Briatore has wasted no time in setting clear expectations. During the A526 launch, he was characteristically blunt, stating that with a world-class Mercedes engine in the back, there are no more excuses for the Enstone-based squad regarding design and aerodynamics.

Technical advantages emerging

Alpine has pursued a meticulous “diet” for the A526, ensuring the team hits the minimum weight limit of 768kg from day one. This early achievement could provide a significant competitive advantage during the initial phase of the season, particularly against rivals weighing more than 10kg above the minimum.

The 2026 regulations have delivered dramatic technical overhauls affecting both chassis and power units. The A526 features active aero elements—movable front and rear wings—as core components of the new rules designed to aid overtaking. Additionally, the switch to Mercedes power has enabled tighter rear-end packaging compared to previous Renault-powered configurations, freeing up design space and improving overall efficiency.

Driver pairing and early optimism

Pierre Gasly continues as the team's spearhead, entering his fourth year with Alpine, joined by rising star Franco Colapinto, who impressed during the latter half of 2025. Both drivers expressed immense optimism following the Silverstone shakedown, noting that the A526 felt “snappy and responsive.”

The reality check remains sobering: no one expects Alpine to fight for wins in 2026. What matters now is whether the team looks “credible, cohesive, and competitive enough” to justify the decisions that brought it here. If the Mercedes engine performs as anticipated and the Enstone aerodynamic package proves competitive against other Mercedes-powered teams, Alpine has genuine grounds for optimism as it returns to the first pre-season test at Barcelona.