Alpine are reconsidering their use of Renault engines ahead of the 2026 regulations. The French outfit could abandon its manufacturer status to become a customer team. According to reports, Mercedes is the engine provider that Alpine are most strongly considering.
Why Alpine want a deal with Mercedes
Last weekend’s Hungarian GP epitomised many of the limitations at Alpine. Pierre Gasly suffered from a reliability issue, forcing him to retire from the race.
This DNF happened even though Alpine fitted Gasly with a fresh power unit for the race.
Teammate Esteban Ocon did not fare much better, crossing the line in a lowly 18th place.
With just nine points after thirteen rounds in 2024, it is clear Alpine lack performance. However, their existing difficulties are only a small part of a more long-term decline.
For several years, the Enstone-based outfit has failed to cement itself as a front-running team.
Ironically, one of their biggest weaknesses has been the Renault engine.
The French power unit is the worst on the grid in terms of horsepower, costing Alpine several tenths per lap. It also has the worst electrical efficiency, as rivals also benefit from better electrical energy recycling.
This engine deficiency is worsened by a lack of downforce, a problem caused by half-hearted investment into personnel and facilities.
With Alpine unwilling to expend the necessary resources to compete at the highest level, what should be an inherent advantage – being able to produce their own engines – is regarded by some as a limitation.
Outsourcing engine development would allow the team to pool its existing resources into more specific areas, which could yield results.
Then again, pessimists might regard this direction as a first step to detaching from Formula 1 altogether.
Regardless, Alpine are looking into different engine suppliers for 2026.
Mercedes the preferred supplier for 2026
Flavio Briatore, recently appointed as Executive Advisor, has been central in pushing the team to investigate this path.
The 74-year-old has the freedom to make the necessary changes, however radical, to alter the Enstone squad’s fortunes.
For weeks, the consensus has been that Mercedes are the most likely alternative supplier Alpine could pursue in 2026.
Indeed, team principal Toto Wolff has spoken openly about potentially powering Alpine’s cars in 2026. Adding Bruno Famin’s personnel to the list of Mercedes customer teams would fill the gap left by Aston Martin, who are joining forces with Honda.
According to racingnews365, talks are advancing for an agreement between Mercedes and Alpine.
Considering the French outfit’s habit of radical decisions in the face of adversity, this action would hardly be a surprise.
It would be consistent with the prevalent reports from recent weeks and cement the team’s commitment to changing their operations.
