Alpine Endurance Team has announced the signing of António Félix da Costa for the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in a multi-year deal. The former Formula E champion and two-time Macau Grand Prix winner will bring his extensive experience to Alpine’s Hypercar programme as the team continues to target success at the highest level of endurance racing.
With his rich history in both single-seaters and endurance racing, many recognise da Costa as one of the most versatile and accomplished drivers in motorsport. Therefore, his signing marks a major step for Alpine as the French manufacturer pushes forward with its ambitious plans in the WEC’s Hypercar category.
Da Costa to add 2026 WEC campaign with Alpine to an impressive career
The 34-year-old Portuguese driver has built an impressive career, showcasing his talents across multiple racing disciplines. Da Costa rose through the ranks in the GP3 Series and Formula Renault 3.5, before establishing himself as a key figure in Formula E. He clinched the coveted Formula E Drivers’ Championship in Season 6 (2019-20) and made a dominant return to the top of the sport in Season 10, winning more races than any other driver.
His ability to adapt to different racing formats is evident in his success across various championships. Da Costa has also triumphed in Germany’s DTM touring car championship, but it is in endurance racing that he has truly excelled.
Da Costa’s résumé includes four full FIA WEC campaigns from 2018 to 2022. He started in LMGTE Pro and later moved to LMP2, where he achieved 15 podiums in 28 appearances, including winning both the WEC title and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022. More recently, he helped Hertz Team JOTA secure the FIA World Cup for Hypercar Teams in 2023.
Alpine outlines endurance ambitions with Da Costa in 2026 WEC campaign
The addition of da Costa comes at an exciting time for Alpine, as its Hypercar programme is on the rise. The A424 Hypercar recently secured its maiden victory in Japan and has had a string of strong finishes, including a pair of third-place results earlier in the season. Therefore, Team Principal Philippe Sinault is confident that da Costa’s experience, competitive spirit, and leadership will play a key role in Alpine’s continued progress.
“We are thrilled to welcome António,” said Sinault. “We have known each other for a long time, and our paths have often crossed in F3 and endurance racing. There has always been mutual respect between us, and it is truly satisfying to see this wish come true today.”
Sinault went on to praise da Costa’s ability to maximise the potential of every car he drives. “António is a pure racer and formidable competitor who has always known how to get the best out of his car. His presence has left its mark on every team and category in which he has raced. He fits in perfectly with our philosophy – human, committed, and focused solely on efficiency.”
Da Costa a perfect fit for Alpine
Nicolas Lapierre, the team’s Sporting Director, also welcomed da Costa’s arrival, highlighting his speed, experience, and deep knowledge of endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. “His profile is exactly what we were looking for – speed, experience, and a thorough knowledge of endurance racing,” said Lapierre. “His track record in multiple categories speaks for itself, and we know he will bring a lot to the team, both in sporting terms and on a personal level.”
Alpine’s focus on becoming a stronger force in the FIA WEC is evident, and Lapierre believes da Costa will integrate quickly into the team’s culture. “He is a complete, determined, and charismatic driver who will quickly integrate into our structure. We are eager to embark upon this new adventure and start working together to make Alpine an ever-stronger force at the forefront of FIA WEC.”
Da Costa and Alpine looking ahead to 2026 WEC campaign
Having tested the Alpine A424 Hypercar at the Le Mans Bugatti Circuit on 20 October, da Costa will return for the Rookie Test in Bahrain on 9 November. He will then make his competitive debut with Alpine in Qatar at the end of March 2026. With his extensive experience as a driver and competitor, da Costa is poised to make a significant impact as Alpine pushes for success in the Hypercar category.
“I’m delighted to join Alpine Endurance Team,” da Costa said. “Returning to the FIA World Endurance Championship was one of my main objectives, and I’m extremely pleased to do so with a manufacturer that has been redefining itself in a bold and ambitious way. I have worked extremely hard to develop as a complete driver in this discipline and, after winning the LMP2 title, my goal now is to contribute to Alpine’s success at the pinnacle.”
Alpine’s investment in the future of its Hypercar programme is clear, and da Costa’s signing represents a significant step in achieving the team’s long-term ambitions in the FIA WEC.
