Team executive advisor and de facto team principal, Flavio Briatore unveiled Alpine’s new 2026 F1 season livery and Mercedes-AMG partnership. New technical regulations provide opportunities for improved competitiveness after a challenging 2025 campaign.
A new beginning with Mercedes power
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for BWT Alpine Formula One Team,” began Flavio Briatore. “It is with great pleasure to begin our season here in Barcelona with our partner MSC Cruises on board the MSC World Europa as we prepare for what will undoubtedly be a unique season in Formula One history, not least for us with the new technical regulations, which offer a clean sheet of paper and a great opportunity for us to be more competitive than previous campaigns,” he added.
Discussing Alpine’s 2026 F1 prospects, Briatore highlighted months of preparation at the Enstone factory. Mercedes-AMG will supply both the power unit and gearbox starting this upcoming season. The German manufacturer’s partnership excites the team following last year’s struggles on track.
This represents a significant shift from Alpine’s previous Renault power unit arrangement. The German manufacturer brings proven championship-winning technology to the French team.
“It has been a relentless few months at the Enstone factory in preparation for the season, designing and creating the A526, together with Mercedes-AMG who will supply the new power unit and gearbox from this season; a partnership we are very much excited about.”
“To be joined by so many of our partners including title partner BWT, our hosts MSC Cruises and premium partner Eni at this event, where we unveil our livery, is just fantastic. I thank them all, both new partners, and existing ones, for their commitment to the team, especially after our challenges on track last year.”
Briatore embraces regulation reset for Alpine’s 2026 season
“It is quite rare to see such changes in our sport and ones which have the potential to shake up the competitive order,” stated Briatore. “We are taking it step by step. We do not know where we will rank at race one let alone the final race.”
Briatore’s strategy for Alpine’s 2026 F1 season focuses on step-by-step development throughout the season. Circuit specific optimisation will determine success according to the de facto team principal. Understanding how to maximise the package at each track will make significant differences.
“Development will be crucial and learning and understanding how best to maximise the package at each circuit will make a big difference to our success. We know this is a long journey and one we look forward to taking on.”
Alpine’s 2026 driver lineup ready to prove themselves
For Briatore, Alpine’s 2026 F1 season depends heavily on Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto’s performances. Both endured frustration during last year’s difficult campaign with underperforming machinery, as the 2025 season tested their patience when results failed to match their abilities, ending with a last-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship.
“Pierre and Franco have a real hunger in their eyes. Last year was not easy for anyone, not least for them, and it is our duty to provide them the car which will allow them to showcase their talent in the most competitive positions,” he concluded. Delivering a competitive car remains the team’s primary responsibility to their driver lineup.
