On January 23rd 2026, the BWT Alpine F1 Team officially revealed their new car livery in Barcelona. The launch of the A526 marks the beginning of a radical transformation for the Enstone-based squad as Formula 1 enters a new regulatory era.
Historic change: The Mercedes engine beneath the Alpine and its 2026 F1 livery
Besides the new regulations for 2026, another significant change for the Alpine F1 team lies beneath the car’s livery. For the first time in the team’s history under the Alpine name, the car will not be powered by a Renault engine, as the 2025 F1 season marked the end of that engine programme. Following the closure, the A526 will be powered by a Mercedes power unit. With this change, the team hopes to take a vital step towards reclaiming competitiveness after a challenging 2025.
Reflecting on difficult 2025 F1 season
At the end of the 2025 F1 season Alpine finished last in the Constructors’ Championship, collecting only 22 points, marking the lowest finish in the team’s history under the Alpine name.
After an early season driver switch, with Jack Doohan making way for Franco Colapinto, the Argentinian finished 20th place in the Drivers championship with 0 points.
Pierre Gasly carried the weight of the team, scoring all 22 points to finish 18th in the Driver’s Championship. The Frenchman’s standout moment came at the British Grand Prix, where he secured a 6th place finish, taking home 8 valuable points.
Continuity in the cockpit
Despite the struggles of 2025, Alpine has chosen stability in its driver lineup. Pierry Gasly, who committed to the team with a long-term contract starting in 2023, remains the first driver. Franco Colapinto, who had to wait until the last few races of the 2025 F1 season, joins the Frenchman in the lineup.
After post-season tests Pierre Gasly stated: “It has been a long year for all of us. Some highs, probably too many lows, but that is how it goes and I know we will come back stronger in 2026.“
Alpine has not yet confirmed a Team principal for the 2026 F1 season. After the departure of Oliver Oakes following the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, Flavio Briatore took over the role, before Managing Director Steve Nielsen came in later that campaign.
