Alpine Formula 1 Team’s Positive Start
The Alpine Formula 1 team experienced a successful shakedown at Silverstone, describing it as a “significant confidence boost” as they begin their new partnership as a Mercedes customer team.
Renault, the owner of Alpine, decided to shift their focus from their own engine program in Viry-Chatillon, which had been lagging behind others, to a customer relationship with Mercedes for the 2026 regulations. This reorientation aligns Alpine with other teams like McLaren and Williams.
During a challenging and rain-soaked filming day on Wednesday, Alpine’s 2026 car, the A526, made its debut with Mercedes’ power unit and gearbox. Driver Pierre Gasly managed to complete 140 out of a potential 200 kilometers, with the run plan interrupted only due to poor weather conditions.
Later in the week, the Mercedes works team successfully utilized its entire 200km allowance during a filming day. This development provides early indications of reliable performance from Mercedes’ High Performance Powertrains. It’s also a promising sign for the Enstone-based Alpine team, which finished at the bottom of the 2025 championship and is focusing all efforts on the 2026 season.
Technical director David Sanchez mentioned at the launch in Barcelona that while there are still nine days of testing ahead, the trouble-free start is encouraging. He noted, “Being able to clock laps without interruptions is a strong confidence boost,” suggesting it would be beneficial when they arrive in Barcelona to continue their testing.
Alpine’s executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, highlighted that the lack of issues during the runs at Silverstone was a positive sign. “For the first time in my years in Formula 1, the car went out and came back without needing attention. This is good news,” he remarked, acknowledging that they had to be cautious due to aquaplaning threats.
Gasly also commended his team for the successful early run, especially considering that Williams announced it would miss the entire Barcelona shakedown due to delays. He emphasized the importance of getting the car out on track as a successful outcome of the test day.
