The Alpine Formula 1 team has confirmed it will switch to Mercedes engines starting from the 2026 season, marking a significant shift as it seeks to keep pace with its rivals in the ever-evolving world of Formula 1. The move comes after Renault, Alpine’s parent company, decided to end its works engine program in September, which had been focused on developing new power units for the upcoming regulatory changes set to take effect in 2026.
Alpine’s partnership with Mercedes, which will last until 2030, aims to address the technical challenges and reliability issues it has faced with Renault engines. This collaboration includes not only the power units but also a switch to Mercedes gearboxes, further enhancing Alpine’s potential for the future. The agreement with Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains and Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix will allow Alpine to utilize the renowned engineering expertise of the German manufacturer, known for its success in Formula 1.
In addition to the technical shift, Alpine has appointed former Renault F1 team boss Flavio Briatore as an executive advisor, signaling the team’s commitment to improving its performance and competitiveness. Briatore's experience and leadership are expected to provide valuable guidance as Alpine transitions to the new engine supplier.
While Alpine initially struggled in the early part of the 2023 season, the team has shown considerable improvement in recent months. A highlight of their resurgence came at the rain-affected Sao Paulo Grand Prix on November 3, where drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly secured second and third place finishes behind race winner Max Verstappen. This strong performance helped Alpine leap from ninth to sixth in the constructors' standings, reinforcing their potential moving forward.
The switch to Mercedes engines represents a crucial step in Alpine’s strategy to compete at the highest level in Formula 1 and improve its standing among the sport’s elite teams. With the 2026 regulations looming, Alpine is positioning itself to be more competitive in the coming years, aiming for greater success on the track.
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