Alpine F1: A Reset and a Gamble for 2026 – Can They Climb Back Up the Grid?
The 2025 Formula 1 season was, to put it mildly, turbulent for Alpine. A mid-season driver change, the departure of a Team Principal, and a car that consistently lagged behind the competition painted a challenging picture. However, beneath the surface, a strategic decision was brewing: an early pivot towards the 2026 regulations. Now, with a new engine partnership and a restructured team, the question is, will this gamble pay off? Let’s dive into the details.
Driver Lineup: Gasly Leads, Colapinto Gets a Second Chance
Pierre Gasly remains a cornerstone of the Alpine team, having signed a long-term contract extension through 2028. His experience – 177 starts, a Grand Prix win, and five podiums – provides much-needed stability. Gasly’s journey through Formula 1 has been a rollercoaster, from a promising debut to a temporary setback at Red Bull, and a memorable win at Monza with AlphaTauri. His consistency and racecraft will be vital as Alpine aims to rebuild.
Alongside Gasly is Franco Colapinto. The young Argentinian driver, who stepped in mid-season in 2025, now has a full season to prove his potential. While his initial stint yielded limited results, the experience gained will be invaluable. Colapinto’s performance in the latter part of 2025 reportedly impressed team management, securing him a seat for 2026.
2025: A Year of Strategic Sacrifice
Alpine made a bold call in 2025: to essentially halt development on their existing car and focus entirely on the 2026 regulation changes. This meant accepting a difficult season, with points finishes proving elusive. The decision stemmed from the significant overhaul of F1’s technical regulations, presenting a unique opportunity to leapfrog the competition. This strategy mirrors Ferrari’s approach in 2022, where they prioritized the long-term gains of the new regulations over immediate success.
The year wasn’t without further upheaval. The resignation of Team Principal Oliver Oakes mid-season added to the instability, with Flavio Briatore stepping in to provide guidance. Despite a standout sixth-place finish for Gasly at Silverstone, the team ultimately finished at the bottom of the standings, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made.
A Legacy of Renault: From Championship Glory to Alpine Rebrand
Alpine’s roots run deep in Formula 1, tracing back to Renault’s involvement in the sport. Renault enjoyed considerable success as both an engine supplier and a constructor, winning championships with Williams, Benetton, and Red Bull. The manufacturer returned as a full works team in 2016, initially with mixed results.
The rebrand to Alpine in 2021 signaled a fresh start, with a focus on building a long-term competitive force. While the team achieved a respectable fourth-place finish in 2022, recent seasons have been marked by inconsistency and internal restructuring. The recent decision to switch to Mercedes power units from 2026 represents another significant shift in direction, highlighting the team’s commitment to securing the best possible resources.
The Hungarian Grand Prix 2021: A Moment to Remember
Despite recent challenges, Alpine has experienced moments of brilliance. Esteban Ocon’s victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix remains a highlight. A chaotic race, punctuated by multiple incidents, saw Ocon capitalize on the circumstances and secure his maiden F1 win, a testament to the team’s ability to seize opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Alpine’s 2026 Ambitions
Alpine’s primary goal for 2026 is clear: to avoid a repeat of their 2025 performance. The arrival of Steve Nielsen as Managing Director, reporting to Flavio Briatore, signals a renewed focus on stability and strategic direction. The Mercedes power unit deal is a crucial component of this plan, providing a significant performance upgrade.
Briatore has publicly stated a target of finishing sixth in the 2026 standings, a realistic yet ambitious goal. The team’s success will hinge on maximizing the potential of the new regulations, developing a competitive chassis, and fostering a collaborative environment. The early investment in the 2026 car, coupled with a stable driver lineup and experienced leadership, provides a foundation for progress.
Did you know?
Alpine’s factory in Enstone has a rich history in Formula 1, previously serving as the base for Toleman, Benetton, and Renault teams. This legacy of engineering expertise provides a valuable asset as they navigate the challenges ahead.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on Franco Colapinto’s development. Young drivers often make significant strides in their second season, and Colapinto’s performance could be a key factor in Alpine’s overall success.
FAQ: Alpine F1 in 2026
- What engine will Alpine use in 2026? Alpine will switch to Mercedes power units from 2026, ending their long-standing relationship with Renault.
- Who are Alpine’s drivers for 2026? Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto will form Alpine’s driver lineup for the 2026 season.
- What was Alpine’s performance like in 2025? Alpine had a challenging 2025 season, finishing last in the Constructors’ Championship due to their focus on the 2026 regulations.
- What is Alpine’s target for 2026? Alpine aims to finish sixth in the 2026 Constructors’ Championship.
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