Alpine Endurance Team approaches the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season with renewed confidence following an intensive and productive pre-season programme. After securing a memorable podium at Imola last year, the French manufacturer now aims to build on that success as it embarks on the final campaign for its A424 Hypercar. With valuable data gathered and a strengthened driver line-up in place, Alpine has laid solid foundations ahead of the opening round.
Alpine hoping to build on 2025 Imola momentum in 2026 WEC opener
Twelve months ago, Alpine delivered a standout performance at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, earning a deserved third-place finish. That result formed part of a strong 2025 campaign, which also included a landmark victory at Fuji during the championship’s 100th race.
As the team prepares to return to Imola, it does so with clear ambition. The goal is not only to replicate last year’s podium but to push even further in what promises to be a highly competitive season.
Intensive pre-season preparation ahead of final campaign
To maximise its chances, Alpine has undertaken an extensive testing programme across multiple circuits. Early running at Portimão provided a reliable baseline, with over 1,250 kilometres completed without issue. This momentum continued with further testing at MotorLand Aragón, where the team gathered critical data across a range of conditions.
The programme focused on key performance areas, including aerodynamics, set-up optimisation, reliability and tyre management. As a result, Alpine has been able to refine its package and identify clear directions for development ahead of the season opener.
Reflecting on the progress made, Team Principal Philippe Sinault highlighted the importance of the Aragón test in shaping the team’s preparations.
“The test at MotorLand Aragón was an important step in our preparation, building upon the work completed at Le Castellet and Portimão,” affirmed Sinault. “Running the car in its 2026 configuration over a 24-hour endurance format allowed us to complete an intensive programme with both crews together for the first time, benefitting from representative top speeds and varied track conditions.”
He continued by outlining the scale of the work completed and the positive outcomes achieved.
“The outcome is positive, with over 3,000 kilometres covered and all six drivers contributing to valuable correlation work with our simulations. While the postponement of the Qatar round is unfortunate, it has given us additional time to prepare for the season start. We remain fully mobilised, with further simulator work and another test planned at Spa-Francorchamps in early April as we continue to refine our package.”
Strong driver line-up taking shape at Alpine ahead of 2026 WEC farewell
Alongside technical development, Alpine has also focused on strengthening its driver roster. The #35 entry retains Charles Milesi and Ferdinand Habsburg, both key figures in the programme’s success to date, and welcomes António Félix da Costa. Meanwhile, the #36 car features Jules Gounon and Frédéric Makowiecki, joined by newcomer Victor Martins.
This blend of experience and fresh talent has quickly gelled, creating a positive dynamic within the team as preparations intensify. Sporting Director Nicolas Lapierre expressed his satisfaction with how seamlessly the new additions have integrated.
“I’m very pleased with how quickly our two new drivers have integrated into the team,” acknowledged Lapierre. “Victor adapted extremely well from the outset, while António already plays a key role within the group. The six-driver line-up is working very well together, with a strong team spirit building both on and off-track.”
He also emphasised the progress made with the car itself, while acknowledging the impact of recent calendar changes.
“I’m also very satisfied with the progress we have made with our 2026 developments. Of course, the postponement of the Qatar round is disappointing, but we are looking forward to starting the season at Imola where we finished on the podium in 2025, which gives us confidence heading into the opening race.”
Alpine aiming for confident start to a final WEC campaign in 2026
With testing nearing completion, Alpine now shifts its attention to the six-hour race at Imola on 19 April. The Italian circuit offers both a familiar challenge and an opportunity to begin the season strongly, building on last year’s success.
Following Imola, the championship will continue with a demanding global schedule, including iconic venues such as Spa-Francorchamps, Le Mans, Fuji and Bahrain. Each round will provide further opportunities for Alpine to demonstrate its progress in the Hypercar category.
As Alpine prepares for its final season with the A424, the team appears well-positioned to compete at the front. Through meticulous preparation, a cohesive driver line-up and a clear development strategy, it has established a platform for success.
With confidence high and momentum building, Alpine heads to Imola determined to turn its promising pre-season work into strong results on race day.
