Earlier today, Alpine were spotted running their 2026 F1 challenger at Silverstone, with Pierre Gasly completing the team’s shakedown. The Enstone-based outfit become the fourth team to offer a first on-track glimpse of their new car. With the 2026 season surrounded by uncertainty, speculation around Alpine’s challenger has intensified in recent weeks. As the season-opener in Melbourne approaches, rumours have suggested that the team could gain an early advantage heading into the new era of regulations.
Rumoured to have hit the minimum weight
Last week, AutoRacer reported that the French outfit had already reached the minimum weight of 768kg during the off-season. While further changes to cars are expected to come during the upcoming test sessions, achieving the minimum weight so early marks a significant milestone for Alpine, particularly after the team’s struggles with car weight throughout the ground-effect era.
With other teams reportedly carrying over 10kg excess weight, Alpine’s achievement could signal a step in the right direction after a challenging 2025 season. A switch to Mercedes power-units in 2026 and the confidence surrounding the German manufacturer adds the element of excitement for the Enstone-based team as well. While the advantage may not be enough for a long-term competitive gain over the rest of the grid, it may be possible that Alpine could still see significant gains in the opening races of the season.
Another management shakeup incoming?
Rumours have circulated for awhile now that former Red Bull CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner is eyeing a potential return to the Formula 1 paddock with Alpine. After a year marked by management and driver instability, Horner’s arrival and investment in the team could present another major shakeup.
Alpine endured a difficult 2025 season, finishing last in the Constructors’ Standings with just 22 points. The year began with Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan behind the wheel. Soon enough, Franco Colapinto stepped into the team’s second seat from Imola onwards. Ahead of the 2026 F1 season, Alpine confirmed Doohan’s departure. For now, led by Flavio Briatore, the team’s focus remains on returning to their winning ways. With Gasly and Colapinto set to spearhead the lineup, Alpine will definitely be aiming for a stronger year.
The 2026 F1 season officially kicks off with a private shakedown in Barcelona from January 26th to 30th, followed by two three-day test sessions in Bahrain ahead of the season-opener in Melbourne.
